World Veterans: Experience Celebrated as the Men’s Divisions Conclude / IJF.org

The fourth day of the World Judo Championships Veterans 2026 brought the men’s programme to a close at the Hotel Hills Arena in Sarajevo. With the M7, M8 and M9 categories on the tatami, it was another day of intense competition, technical quality and the unmistakable spirit that has defined the championships from the opening contests.

Across the divisions, judoka representing a wide range of nations demonstrated that experience remains a formidable asset. The day offered close contests, committed performances and a rich diversity of styles, while the results once again reflected the international depth of the veterans community.

For the men competing in the final age categories, the contest is never a simple matter of returning to the mat. It is the expression of a long relationship with judo, built over decades of training, competition, teaching and service to the sport. Their presence in Sarajevo gives real meaning to the idea that judo can remain a source of challenge, learning and friendship throughout life.

At the conclusion of this intense day, two leading figures from the veterans community were honoured with the IJF Veterans’ Lifetime Award. The trophies were presented by Denis Weisser, Head of the IJF Veterans Commission, Jean-Luc Bartoli and Edgardo Rodriguez, members of the Veterans Commission.

Lena Sterea of Romania was honoured. An eight-time veterans world champion and eight-time veterans European champion, she has made her mark not only as a competitor, but also as a referee and coach within her club. Her journey reflects the many ways in which a judoka can continue to serve, inspire and strengthen the sport.

Miklos Flori of Hungary, a member of the IJF Veterans Commission and a legend of Hungarian judo, received the award in recognition of his lasting contribution to the sport and to the veterans community.

The moment provided a fitting reminder that veterans judo is sustained not only by the athletes who compete, but also by those who devote their knowledge, energy and commitment to the development of others.

While the men’s competition has now concluded, the World Judo Championships Veterans 2026 are not yet over. On Thursday, the women’s categories will take centre stage for the final day of competition in Sarajevo, bringing another chapter to an event that has already celebrated the enduring strength of the global judo family.