The Olympic capital will transform into the judo capital this weekend. The Vaudoise Arena will host the Lausanne Judo Grand Slam from August 28 to 30. Switzerland has never before organized a judo competition of this scale. This Grand Slam marks a new stage which, in our opinion, will bring considerable added value to world judo. Hosting a World Judo Tour event in Lausanne, the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee, carries major symbolic importance, of which we are very proud. " because Lausanne will offer a unique perspective, particularly in terms of inclusivity," emphasized the president of the International Federation, Marius Vizer, at the time of the award in December.
300 para-athletes were present.
For the first time in history, a Judo Grand Slam is set to bring together athletes and para-athletes. Some 900 athletes from over 50 nations, including 300 para-athletes, will take to the tatami in Lausanne, in front of more than 10.000 spectators. This is a strong signal regarding the importance given to para-sports, which will undoubtedly serve as an example.
« Judo is an Olympic sport deeply rooted in our traditions, and hosting this Grand Slam will reinforce the central role of the canton of Vaud in international sport. This event will also serve as a platform to showcase best practices in sports inclusion and to launch initiatives aimed at promoting sport and physical activity for people of all ages. " insists Christelle Luisier Brodard, president of the Council of State of the canton of Vaud.
« This event offers an exceptional opportunity to showcase this sport and inspire young people, while highlighting the role of major sporting events as catalysts for social change. " adds Émilie Moeschler, Lausanne city councillor in charge of sport and social cohesion.
A stepping stone to other events?
This competition can also serve as a springboard for Lausanne. Beyond sporting performance, the Lausanne Judo Grand Slam is part of a strong strategic ambition: to establish Lausanne permanently as a major center of world judo, through an international cycle from 2026-2029, with the ultimate goal of hosting the World Judo Championships. » reads the website of the Olympic capitalLausanne had already hosted the 1973 World Championships at the Palais de Beaulieu, but fewer than 300 athletes attended at the time.
The Olympic capital reminded everyone of its passion for sport earlier this month by hosting the Grand Départ of the Women's Tour de France. In five months, it will host the 2027 European Figure Skating Championships. It also has its sights set on the 2029 European U20 and U23 Athletics Championships. Appetite comes with eating, and this first Judo Grand Slam might just whet even the appetite.
