Joana Santos Gomes Brings Inclusion to the European Judo Podium

Portugal’s Joana Santos Gomes claimed bronze in the F2 -57 kg category at the European Veterans Judo Championships in Portimão on 24 October 2026. The Deaflympic champion reached the podium in front of a home crowd during a packed Saturday programme at Portimão Arena.

The final individual European titles were decided on the third day, with all women’s categories competing alongside the men’s M1 and M2 age groups. After two days centred on the men’s divisions, the focus shifted to the women on the tatami.

For Gomes, the medal carried meaning beyond the result. Originally from the Algarve, she competed as a deaf athlete alongside hearing judoka under the same rules, showing how Judo can create space for athletes with different abilities when fair and safe conditions are in place.

Joana Santos Gomes earned a European bronze medal on home soil.

Her performance underlined the inclusive side of the sport. Judo communication is not limited to spoken words: movement, contact, technique and mutual respect are central to every contest. That shared language allows judoka to meet each other on equal sporting ground.

The women competing in Portimão also represented the long-term commitment behind veteran Judo. Many balance intensive training with professional work, family life and motherhood, while continuing to pursue competition at European level.

For these athletes, returning to the tatami is about more than chasing medals. It is also about keeping a connection with Judo that can last throughout life. Gomes’ bronze became a powerful personal achievement within that wider picture, and a reminder that opportunities to compete matter across the sport.

Source: EJU.net

Image source: EJU / European Judo Union