Chairman of the Committee for Sports and Physical Culture of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr Ruslan Bakytuly Yessenalin opened proceedings, “Dear sports fans, dear guests, I am glad to see you in Astana! I sincerely congratulate you on the grand opening of the 2026 IBSA Judo Grand Prix Astana."
"Judo is a dynamically developing sport in Kazakhstan. As you know, the judoka of our country have competed in numerous international competitions under the blue flag! At the Paralympic Games held in France in 2024, our strong-spirited athletes won 1 gold, 1 silver and 3 bronze medals. These bright victories have served as an inspiration for many people here in Kazakhstan.
In addition, large-scale Para-judo competitions have been held in the country. Today's exciting competition is vivid proof of this. 140 athletes from 24 countries are taking part in the competition. I would like to welcome all sports delegations from countries far and near.
Dear athletes, I wish you good luck. Please delight the fans with exciting and spectacular contests!”
In response, IBSA Chief Executive Officer Mr Rufat Hajili delivered a warm welcome, “Dear athletes, coaches and members of the IBSA Judo community, it is a great pleasure to see all of you here today at what has become a traditional and successful series of competitions in Astana, Kazakhstan. On behalf of IBSA, I warmly welcome every participant, guest and delegation. Your presence here reflects the unity, friendship and strong spirit of our judo family."
"This year marks the 45th anniversary of IBSA and without your dedication, support and commitment, IBSA would not have achieved such an important milestone. Together, you have helped develop and strengthen our movement, creating opportunities and inspiration for athletes around the world.
We wish all competitors success, memorable moments and an excellent championship. Welcome to Astana and thank you for being part of the IBSA family.”
President of event sponsor the Zhanykulov Foundation, Mr Zhumabek Zhanykulov spoke sincerely about the foundation’s commitment to judo, “Dear guests, representatives of IBSA, athletes, coaches and friends, it is a great honour for me to welcome you today to the opening ceremony of the IBSA Judo Grand Prix Astana 2026 here in the capital of Kazakhstan."
"Astana has already become an important part of the international IBSA Judo family. We are proud that Kazakhstan continues to host major international Para-judo events year after year and contributes to the development of this great sport.
Today, more than 140 athletes from 24 countries have gathered in this hall. These are not just competitors, they are a symbol of courage, strength of spirit, equal opportunities, and true human character.
It is especially important to highlight the journey Kazakhstan has made in the development of Para-judo. It all began with a small group of athletes training in modest conditions. Today, Kazakhstan is a country that successfully hosts world championships, Asian championships, and IBSA grand prix events at a high international level.
It is a great honour for me to support the development of Paralympic sport. In 2025, together we successfully hosted the Para-Judo World Championships and the Asian Championships and I am more than pleased to see how this sport continues to grow, bringing people together and inspiring a new generation of athletes."
"I would like to express my gratitude to the International Blind Sports Association (IBSA), the International Judo Federation (IJF), the organisers, volunteers, coaches, partners, and everyone who contributed to making this tournament possible. To the athletes, I wish you fair competition, great victories, good health, and unforgettable emotions here in Astana. Welcome to Kazakhstan! May the strongest win!
