Athletes representing 10 nations took to the tatami, an almost equal split of men and women, reflecting the growing strength of Para judo across the Americas and Oceania, while also demonstrating an encouraging balance between male and female participation.
Competing on home soil and fielding a full team of 26 athletes, Logically, Brazil enjoyed an outstanding championship, finishing at the top of the medal table with 11 continental titles. Following an impressive performance during the grand prix, the host nation once again confirmed its status as one of the leading forces in IBSA judo. However, the championships also demonstrated the progress being made across the continent and beyond. Colombia, Argentina, Mexico and Australia each celebrated a continental title, proving that success is becoming increasingly widespread. Overall, seven of the ten participating nations earned at least one medal, illustrating the healthy competitiveness that now characterises Para judo in the region.
Beyond the medal table, the statistics tell another compelling story. An impressive 97.5% of all contests were decided by a positive score, while 83.8% ended with ippon. These figures are far more than simple numbers; they reflect one of the defining characteristics of Para judo. Athletes consistently seek to win through positive judo, looking to score rather than relying on tactical management or penalties. The result is a style of competition that is dynamic, spectacular and deeply rooted in the values and spirit of judo, offering spectators an exciting and authentic sporting experience.
As the curtain falls on three days of competition, São Paulo leaves a lasting impression. The IBSA Judo Grand Prix launched the qualification race towards the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games, while the Americas and Oceania Championships crowned the continent's newest champions. Throughout the weekend, athletes delivered exceptional performances, officials ensured fair competition and volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes to create the best possible environment for everyone involved.
The success of the event was no coincidence. From the quality of the organisation to the smooth delivery of every session, both the grand prix and the continental championships were conducted to the highest standard. The organising committee, referees, technical officials and volunteers all deserve immense credit for creating the ideal conditions in which the athletes could express themselves freely and perform at their very best.
São Paulo has now handed the baton to the next stage of the Paralympic journey, leaving behind not only new champions and unforgettable performances, but also renewed confidence in the continued growth and global development of Para judo. We meet again next month in Germany for more exciting and passionate Para judo.
Results
J1 Men -70 kg
- 1. Eduardo GAUTO (ARG)
- 2. Gabriel FERREIRA RODRIGUES (BRA)
- 3. Elielton DE OLIVEIRA (BRA)
- 3. Deyverson DE SOUZA (BRA)
- 5. David Santiago NORIEGA (COL)
- 5. Jonathan Nahuel VERA (ARG)
- 7. Carlos ALMONTE (USA)
- 7. Paul Aaron REYES GAMEZ (MEX)
J1 Men -81 kg
- 1. Danilo David GERONIMO SILVA (BRA)
- 2. Harlley Damiao PEREIRA ARRUDA (BRA)
- 3. Emerson AGUIAR (BRA)
- 3. Raul Abraham ORTIZ CARREON (MEX)
- 5. Eitel HOUEDAKOR (CAN)
- 5. Alejandro KUNKEL (ARG)
J1 Men -95 kg
- 1. Arthur CAVALCANTE DA SILVA (BRA)
J1 Men +95 kg
- 1. Wilians DE ARAUJO (BRA)
- 2. Oscar AGUIRRE (MEX)
- 3. Cristian Angel ALDERETE (ARG)
J2 Men -70 kg
- 1. Thiego DA SILVA (BRA)
- 2. Raul ZARATE ARIAS (COL)
- 3. Johann Luis HERRERA BUSTOS (CHI)
J2 Men -81 kg
- 1. Denis ROSA (BRA)
- 2. Anderson DA SILVA (BRA)
J2 Men -95 kg
- 1. Marcelo CASANOVA (BRA)
J1 Women -52 kg
- 1. Jocelyn Atziri ORTIZ CARREON (MEX)
- 2. Jenny Andrea OROZCO ESCARRAGA (COL)
- 3. Rosicleide DE ANDRADE (BRA)
J1 Women -60 kg
- 1. Larissa SILVA (BRA)
- 2. Karoline DUARTE (BRA)
- 3. Paula Karina GOMEZ (ARG)
J1 Women -70 kg
- 1. Brenda SOUZA DE FREITAS (BRA)
- 2. Ariagna De La Caridad HECHEVARRIA CASTRO (CUB)
J1 Women +70 kg
- 1. Erika ZOAGA (BRA)
J2 Women -52 kg
- 1. Eslendy Catalina D LAMADRID PENUELA (COL)
- 2. Giovana RODRIGUES (BRA)
J2 Women -60 kg
- 1. Lucia ARAUJO (BRA)
- 2. Laura Candela GONZALEZ (ARG)
J2 Women -70 kg
- 1. Taylor GOSENS (AUS)
J2 Women +70 kg
- 1. Rebeca SILVA (BRA)
- 2. Sheyla Samarian HERNANDEZ ESTUPINAN (CUB)
- 3. Meg EMMERICH (BRA)