On November 19, 2024, the International Judo Federation (IJF) Headquarters in Budapest became the epicenter of a monumental moment as Kazakhstan’s President, His Excellency Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, was welcomed with open arms by IJF President Mr. Marius L. Vizer. The visit was a celebration of Kazakhstan's deep ties to the global judo community and its unwavering commitment to the sport.
Kazakhstan has long been a powerhouse in judo, with its athletes consistently achieving excellence on the World Judo Tour and making history with Olympic gold, most recently won by Yeldos Smetov in Paris. This visit underscored the country’s influential role in shaping judo's legacy in Central Asia and beyond.
A Meeting of Visionaries
During the landmark meeting, Presidents Tokayev and Vizer delved into pivotal discussions about judo's role as a transformative tool for education, cultural exchange, and societal unity. The talks also explored ways to deepen collaboration between the IJF and Kazakhstan, promoting judo’s core values of discipline, respect, and fairness.
Highlighting the future of this partnership, President Vizer revealed an exciting milestone: the 2027 Judo World Championships will be held in Astana. This prestigious event is set to solidify Kazakhstan’s status as a global hub for judo and a beacon of organizational excellence.
“We are honoured to welcome His Excellency, President Tokayev, to the IJF headquarters,” said President Vizer. “Kazakhstan hosting the 2027 World Championships is a testament to the nation’s passion for judo and its exceptional ability to unite the global judo community. Astana will undoubtedly provide a world-class stage for athletes and fans alike.”
A Tour of Legacy and Innovation
President Tokayev’s visit included an exclusive tour of the IJF Headquarters, offering a glimpse into the federation’s groundbreaking initiatives in sport development, education, and humanitarian work. The visit also highlighted upcoming events on the judo calendar, reaffirming Kazakhstan’s integral role in fostering the sport’s growth.
Kazakhstan's Enduring Impact on Judo
Kazakhstan’s history with the IJF is one of fruitful collaboration, marked by its frequent hosting of international judo tournaments and its dedication to upholding the sport’s values. This visit symbolizes another leap forward in their partnership, as Kazakhstan continues to leave an indelible mark on the global judo stage.
With the 2027 World Championships on the horizon, the bond between Kazakhstan and the IJF is stronger than ever, promising to elevate the sport to new heights and inspire generations to come.