The Principality of Power Moves: Monaco’s Judo Legacy Takes Centre Stage

This past weekend, the Principality played host to the 29th International Judo Tournament of Monaco (TIJM), a fiercely contested event featuring top-tier judokas from across Europe. Teams from Spain, Ukraine, Italy, Lithuania, Portugal and Belgium faced Monaco and the best French clubs. Beyond its judo prowess, Monaco is also building its reputation as a centre for rugby, weaving a narrative of athleticism and community into its history.

The 29th TIJM, held in the Louis II Stadium’s Gaston-Médecin Hall, showcased the dynamic and rigorous nature of team judo. 16 teams competed in a knockout format. Each of them entered 7 fighters (one per weight category), the first team to win 4 fights being declared the winner. The 16 teams competed in a direct elimination table with automatic repechages. The tournament eventually crowned the Ukrainian squad as champions after a thrilling final against Judo Nice Métropole. The event was rich in symbolism, celebrating both the 50th anniversary of the Monégasque Judo Federation and the 75th anniversary of the Judo Club of Monaco.

The tournament brought together a dazzling roster of talent, including European and World Championship medalists. The Ukrainian federation, for example was led by the 2023 European champion Yevheniy Balyevskyy (+100kg) and Dilshot Khalmatov (-60kg), vice-European champion the same year. Ukraine’s Yevheniy Balyevskyy and Spain’s Aharón Santamaria Rodriguez stood out as dominant forces, demonstrating why judo remains a cornerstone of European sport.

For Monaco’s own team, the TIJM was a chance to compete against Europe’s best. Monaco’s team, led by François Bick, showed grit despite a challenging pool draw that included teams from Spain, Venelles, and ACBB. Despite this tough group stage, local judokas like Enzo Toriti and Lucas Berthezene showed determination and promise.

A mass training session for the youngest, led by Loïc Pietri (three world champion titles) under the watchful eye of Gévrise Emane, was scheduled for the occasion. Indeed, the French world champion was scheduled to be present to renew the partnership between the two federations, French and Monegasque, of judo.

As Gévrise Emane, Vice-President of the French Judo Federation, formalized the partnership with Monaco’s judo federation, represented by its president Sophie Vincent, the event underscored the Principality’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and fostering international cooperation.

While judo has taken centre stage this weekend , rugby is also steadily carving out its niche in Monaco. The Principality boasts several rugby initiatives, including the Monaco Rugby Sevens, an international event that draws top teams to its shores. Rugby’s values of teamwork and resilience resonate with Monaco’s sporting ethos, complementing its judo tradition.

Monaco’s central location, excellent facilities, and robust support from local authorities make it an ideal host for international events. The presence of high-calibre athletes and teams, coupled with a growing local enthusiasm for sports, ensures that Monaco remains at the forefront of both judo and rugby.

Monaco may be small in size, but it is punching well above its weight on the international sports stage. Whether on the tatami or the rugby field, this Mediterranean enclave is proving itself as a dynamic crossroads for athletes and fans alike.