"Dear President Nomis, dear guests, dear spectators, partners, dear judo family, welcome to the Paris Grand Slam. I would like to congratulate the French Judo Federation, all the judoka and President Nomis for the partnership that allows us to organise one of the greatest sporting events in the world so successfully. I would also like to acknowledge the support of the French government for enabling us to have all the nations of the world here today.
Judo gives us values that unites all nations. It is a bridge for reconciliation and peace. Judo represents a way of life, unity, solidarity and the promotion of universal peace. In our sport, there is no place for politics, discrimination or war. The prosperity of the world and of all nations depends on unity, fraternity and peace.
I wish you an excellent Paris Grand Slam, great success and the best achievements, to all of you. Thank you and have a wonderful tournament.”
Before President Vizer, Stéphane Nomis, president of France Judo, welcomed the delegations and the fans, underlining how Paris remains an historic and emotional stop for the global judo family.
He praised the excellence of the World Judo Tour and of the Paris tournament, an event that for more than half a century has held a special place in the international calendar. He paid tribute to the volunteers, officials and staff whose work makes the event possible and highlighted the unique role played by the Paris crowd, often described as the best in the world.
President Nomis also underlined how, in challenging times, judo remains a school of life, grounded in the moral code, respect for opponents and recognition of the difficult task carried out by referees. Finally, he emphasised friendship between nations and mutual prosperity as the foundations on which the sport continues to grow.
Two Prestigious IJF Honours
The ceremony continued with two prestigious recognition awards presented by President Vizer. Mr Daniel Gyurta, Olympic champion, three-time world champion and two-time European champion in swimming, received an IJF diploma honouring his role as an IJF Ambassador and his commitment to the universal values of peace, unity and friendship.
“It’s a great pleasure for me to join the international judo family,” he said. “Becoming a judo ambassador today is one of the greatest achievements in my life.”
President Vizer also awarded an IJF honorary black belt to Mr Raja Sapta Oktohari, president of the Indonesian National Olympic Committee, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the development of sport and the opportunities created for athletes.
“What a surprise, what a great honour,” he declared, dedicating the distinction to the Indonesian people and their love for judo.
Emotion was already high as Frédéric Lecanu, who for many years animated the intervals of French judo events, was honoured warmly before the final block as he now turns towards a new professional chapter. The tribute from France Judo drew heartfelt applause from the crowd in recognition of his passion and loyalty to the sport.
Spectators were also deeply moved by demonstrations delivered by participants living with a variety of disabilities, each showing how judo offers the possibility of a full and meaningful sporting life. Their presence on the tatami was a powerful reminder that judo belongs to everyone.
With unity, respect and friendship resonating throughout the arena, Paris once again proved why it holds a special place in the heart of the world judo family.