Rome Set for Europe’s Next Cadet Judo Stage in 2027

Rome will host the 2027 European Judo Championships Cadets after the official flag handover at the close of the “Millennium Team” European Judo Championships Cadets Gran Canaria 2026. The moment confirmed Italy as the next destination for one of Europe’s key cadet events.

Representing the Italian Judo Federation, Olympic champion Pino Maddaloni accepted the EJU flag. His message was clear: Italy sees this as a proud responsibility and a major chance to showcase judo on a big stage.

For Italian judo, the announcement carries extra weight. Maddaloni noted that the country has not hosted an event of this scale for more than 25 years, making the return of a major continental championship to Rome especially meaningful.

The flag handover turned the page from Gran Canaria to Rome.

Italy’s recent hosting plans also show a steady commitment to the sport. Rome previously welcomed the Junior European Championships in 1999, and the country is set to host the U23 European Championships later this year. That continuity adds context to the decision and highlights Italy’s growing role in the European judo calendar.

Maddaloni also pointed to the wider impact the event could have beyond the tatami. In his view, the championships will help promote judo in Italy, draw media attention, and introduce more people to the sport.

That matters because cadet championships are often where future stars first step into the spotlight. For young athletes across Europe, Rome 2027 will now stand as the next big target. For Italy, it is a chance to welcome the continent and place judo in front of a broader national audience.

The handover ceremony may have lasted only a moment, but it carried a strong message. Gran Canaria 2026 has ended, and the road now leads to Rome.

Rome 2027 is now the next landmark on the cadet judo calendar.

Source: EJU.net

Image source: EJU / European Judo Union