Astana Sets the Stage as IBSA Judo Grand Prix Begins

The 2026 IBSA Judo Grand Prix Astana got underway on day one with its opening ceremony at the Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov Wrestling Palace in Kazakhstan’s capital. Before the medals are decided, the message from the arena was clear: this event matters deeply to Kazakhstan, to IBSA, and to the athletes who have gathered from around the world.

Mr Ruslan Bakytuly Yessenalin, Chairman of the Committee for Sports and Physical Culture of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, officially opened the competition. In his address, he welcomed sports fans, guests and delegations to Astana and highlighted the country’s growing connection with judo.

He pointed to Kazakhstan’s recent Paralympic success in France in 2024, where the nation’s athletes earned 1 gold, 1 silver and 3 bronze medals. He described those results as an inspiration for many people in the country, underlining why events like this carry real emotional weight for the home crowd.

The scale of the tournament also stood out from the start. According to the opening ceremony speeches, 140 athletes from 24 countries are competing in Astana, giving the event a strong international feel from the first day.

More than 140 athletes from 24 countries have come to Astana.

IBSA Chief Executive Officer Mr Rufat Hajili also welcomed the judo community, describing Astana as part of a traditional and successful competition series. He said the presence of athletes, coaches and delegations reflected the unity, friendship and spirit of the IBSA Judo community.

His speech also placed the event in a wider moment for the sport, noting that this year marks the 45th anniversary of IBSA. He credited the community’s dedication and support for helping the movement grow and for creating opportunities and inspiration for athletes around the world.

There was also a strong local voice from event sponsor the Zhanykulov Foundation. Its president, Mr Zhumabek Zhanykulov, said Astana had become an important part of the international IBSA Judo family and expressed pride that Kazakhstan continues to host major Para-judo competitions year after year.

He reflected on how Para-judo has developed in Kazakhstan, from a small group of athletes training in modest conditions to a country capable of staging world championships, Asian championships and IBSA Grand Prix events. He also referenced the successful hosting of the 2025 Para-Judo World Championships and the Asian Championships.

The opening day carried a clear sense of momentum for Para-judo in Kazakhstan.

The atmosphere inside the venue matched the importance of the occasion. The arena then moved into a preliminary session, welcoming the judoka onto the tatami with the final block still to come.

For now, the first big result in Astana is not a medal table entry but the start itself: a major IBSA Judo event open, full of energy, and ready for the contests ahead.

Source: IJF.org

Image source: IJF / International Judo Federation