The organisers of the eight-day World Championships invited judo fans to an astonishing walk through the centre of the city, where outstanding images of judo athletes were projected on to the buildings. All the members of the Hungarian national team were present, together with the two head coaches, Gábor Pánzcél and Péter Toncs.
“It is a beautiful and surprising evening and very good promotion of the event and judo itself, not only in Hungary, but across the whole world. I would like to thank the host country and the Hungarian judo family for again welcoming the most important event of our beloved sport here in Budapest. I hope we will have a successful competition in front of spectators. I am sure they will not be disappointed, watching the best athletes in the world competing,” said Mr Marius L. Vizer.
A few days ago the decision to allow local spectators, with a vaccination certificate, inside the arena, was taken. The entry will be free and Hungarian citizens can apply here.
“We have been working non-stop since last October, when we organised the first Grand Slam after the long Covid break. We have prepared many scripts in recent months. A month ago we still believed that we would not have fans in the arena. Fortunately, thanks to Hungary’s outstanding campaign against the pandemic, we are able to let supporters in and this is very important for us. It was also crucial to host the event as it is the last chance before the Olympic Games. It is important for our young athletes to show their talent,” added László Tóth, President of HJF.
On the first day of competition, 6th June, 500 spectators will be able to enter the arena. On the remaining days there will be 3,000 spectators per day in the Papp László Budapest Sportaréna.
World Championship Schedule
Sunday 6th June 2021: Men 60 and women 48 kg
Monday 7th June 2021: Men 66 and Women 52 kg
Tuesday 8th June 2021: Male 73 and female 57 kg
Wednesday 9th June 2021: Men 81 and women 63 kg
Thursday 10th June 2021: Men 90 and women 70 kg
Friday 11th June 2021: Men 100 and women 78 kg
Saturday 12th June 2021: Male +100 and female +78 kg
Sunday 13th June 2021: Mixed Team Competition
So far 134 countries from 5 continents, with 731 athletes, have registered to compete at the World Championships.
The show that was presented on 26th May was a huge boost for the athletes and organisers, who are ready to welcome the judo world to Budapest, Hungary. Stay connected for more exciting news soon.