An impressive 463 athletes representing 65 nations will compete over the coming days on the tatami of the Coliseo Eduardo Dibós. Some are already familiar faces on the World Judo Tour, while for others this event marks their very first appearance on the global stage, the beginning of a journey that could carry them to the highest level of the sport in the years ahead.
It is no secret that the World Junior Championships serve as a vital stepping stone in a judoka’s career. Many of today’s world and Olympic champions took their first major titles at this level. Thus the world titles to be awarded in Lima carry true significance, not only for the medallists, but also for all competitors who will soon transition to the senior circuit.
The Draw Ceremony, the Start of the Journey
The draw, eagerly awaited by athletes, coaches and officials alike, launched this year’s junior campaign today. The ceremony was attended by Mr Carlos Zegarra Presser, IJF Vice-President, Mr Mohamed Meridja, IJF Education and Coaching Director, Mr Raul Camacho, IJF Referee Director, Mr Renzo Manyari Velazco, President of the Peruvian Olympic Committee, Mrs Maria Martinez Murciego, President of the Peruvian Judo Federation, and Mrs Kimberlie Rivera Tello, Sport Director of the Pan-American Judo Confederation.
During the ceremony, Mr Carlos Zegarra Presser, IJF Vice-President and President of the Pan-American Judo Confederation, said, “Dear Mr Manyari Velazco, dear Mrs Martinez Murciego, dear Mrs Rivera Tello, IJF colleagues, presidents of the national federations and members of the judo family, welcome to the Lima World Junior Championships Individuals and Mixed Teams 2025.
It is a great honour to be here, witnessing the tremendous efforts of the local organisers working hand in hand with the IJF to provide all national federations and their judoka with the best possible environment to perform and achieve their dreams. On behalf of IJF President Mr Marius Vizer, I wish you all the very best. May you demonstrate the true values of judo, respect, friendship and excellence and may this event bring prosperity to your nations and your families. Thank you very much and all the best.”
Mr Renzo Manyari Velazco, POC President, then took the floor, “I would like to offer everyone a very warm welcome to Peru. For us, it is a great honour to once again receive the judo family. On this occasion we are especially proud that you will experience the excellent work of the Peruvian Judo Federation, a highly respected organisation in our country, recognised both nationally and internationally for its professionalism and dedication.
At the same time, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Mr Marius Vizer for once again placing his trust in Peruvian leaders and in our nation, as we continue to develop judo here in Peru, across America and throughout the world. I also wish to thank the Peruvian government for its continued support. I extend my best wishes to all athletes taking part. I am confident that from the very first moments, this competition will reflect the values of respect, excellence and friendship that define the sport. Let us go higher, stronger and faster and, above all, let us do it together. Thank you.”
Competition Schedule
Due to the large number of participants, competition start times will vary as follows:
- Day 1: 07:30
- Day 2: 09:00
- Day 3: 09:30
- Day 4 (Mixed Teams): 10:30
- Each day, the final block will begin at 18:00 local time.
All the action from Lima can be followed live on JudoTV, featuring expert commentary and in-depth analysis throughout the event.
For the next four days, the future of world judo will be written here in Lima, Peru. Come and witness the next generation of champions and remember their names. You are only just beginning to hear about them.