With these words, former IJF Head Refereeing Director Juan Carlos Barcos paid tribute to his friend and colleague Jose Manuel Cortes, whose passing has brought great sadness to the international judo family.
The International Judo Federation and the global judo community mourn the loss of one of the most respected referees of his generation, a man whose contribution to judo extended far beyond the competition tatami. Throughout a career spanning decades, Jose Manuel Cortes’ name became synonymous with excellence, fairness and professionalism. His calm presence, technical expertise and unwavering commitment to the values of judo earned him the respect of athletes, coaches, officials and colleagues across the world.
His outstanding career as an international referee led him to officiate at three Olympic Games, a distinction reserved for only a select few. Through countless World Judo Tour events, world championships and major international competitions, he demonstrated an exceptional ability to combine authority with humility, applying the rules with consistency while never losing sight of the spirit of judo.
Recognition naturally followed. In 2013, he was named European Referee of the Year, confirming his status among the world's leading officials. Yet those who worked alongside him often remember not the honours he received, but the person he was: approachable, thoughtful and always willing to share his knowledge.
After concluding his career as a referee, Jose Manuel Cortes continued to serve the sport with the same dedication. As an IJF Referee Supervisor and member of the IJF Refereeing Commission, he played a crucial role in the education and development of new generations of international referees. His influence extended far beyond the contests he officiated, helping to shape the standards of modern judo refereeing and ensuring that the principles of fairness and respect remained at the heart of competition.
His experience, wisdom and ability to mentor others made him a valued figure within the international judo family. Whether working at the highest level of the sport or supporting the development of younger officials, he approached every task with professionalism and generosity.
The legacy of Jose Manuel Cortes is not measured only by the competitions he officiated or the titles he held. It lives on through the many referees he guided, the standards he helped establish and the countless members of the judo community who benefited from his knowledge, friendship and example.
International Judo Federation President, Mr Marius Vizer, also paid tribute to Jose Manuel Cortes, recognising the profound impact he had on the development of judo worldwide: "On behalf of the International Judo Family and on my own behalf, I would like to express our deepest condolences following the loss of Jose Manuel Cortes Garijo, a judoka with an outstanding career, recognised for his extensive experience as an international and Olympic referee, a member of the IJF Refereeing Commission and a Referee Supervisor. Jose Manuel Cortes Garijo was a true reference in judo, contributing significantly to its development through his dedication, commitment and passion for our sport, both nationally and internationally. His career and contribution represent a valuable legacy for the judo community. Our thoughts are with the Spanish Judo Family, as well as with Manel's family and friends during these difficult moments."
Today, the world of judo has lost a respected colleague, a mentor and a friend. His contribution to our sport will not be forgotten.
The International Judo Federation extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and to the entire Spanish judo community during this difficult time.
May he rest in peace.