The ceremony gathered representatives from both the International Judo Federation and the Uzbekistan Judo Federation. Representing the International Judo Federation were IJF Head Sport Director Mr Vladimir Barta, IJF Head Referee Director Mr Armen Bagdasarov, and IJF Education and Coaching Director Mr Mohamed Meridja.
From the Uzbekistan Judo Federation and national authorities were Adviser to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Mr Odil Abdurakhanov, Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee of Uzbekistan Mr Oybek Kasimov, and President of the Uzbekistan Judo Federation, Mr Azizjon Kamilov.
During his opening speech, Mr Vladimir Barta declared, “Welcome to the official draw of the OTP Group Tashkent Grand Slam 2026. On behalf of the IJF President, Mr Marius Vizer, I am pleased to welcome all delegations to the second stage of this season’s World Judo Tour.
Uzbekistan is well known for its rich history and culture, as well as for its outstanding achievements in judo and a proven ability to host major international events. This includes not only the Tashkent Grand Slam but also a world championships, held here in 2022. For this edition of the grand slam, we will gather in the very same venue that hosted those memorable championships.
Let me thank the organisers and the president of the federation, Mr Azizjon Kamilov, for their hospitality and great professionalism. I would like to wish all participants the very best of luck for the three days of competition ahead. Thank you.”
Mr Odil Abdurakhanov then addressed the audience, “Assalamu alaykum, dear guests and respected International Judo Federation family! On behalf of myself personally and on behalf of the judo federation of Uzbekistan, we are sincerely pleased to welcome you to the draw ceremony of the competition. We are delighted to see you in Uzbekistan.
Under the personal initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, H.E. Shavkat Miromonovich Mirziyoyev, and within the framework of the reforms being carried out in the field of sport, welcome to the OTP Group Tashkent Grand Slam tournament, which is being held in our capital for the fifth time.
At this year’s grand slam, nearly 400 athletes from almost 40 countries across five continents will compete for medals, as well as for valuable ranking points toward the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. This clearly demonstrates the global scale and prestige of the tournament. I am confident that this event will be remembered for mutual respect, sincere friendship and a high sporting spirit.
I wish all participants worthy opponents and fair, uncompromising contests on the tatami. May the strongest win!”
With the draw now completed, anticipation builds for three days of high-level competition in one of the most passionate judo nations on the World Judo Tour.
Competition Programme:
- Day 1: Starting time 10:30 am
- Day 2: Starting time 10:30 am
- Day 3: Starting time 11:00 am
Preliminaries will take place on three mats. The final block will be held on Mat 2 at 17:00. The opening ceremony is scheduled for Saturday 28th February at 16:00.
