Deaf International Judo Federation

In less than 100 days, Lausanne will officially enter the history of world judo as it hosts, for the very first time, a stage of the International Judo Federation World Judo Tour: the Lausanne Judo Grand Slam 2026, together with DIJF the Deaf Judo Masters TOP 18 will take place

From 28th to 30th August 2026, the Vaudoise Arena will become the centre of the international judo world, welcoming the planet’s best athletes for three exceptional days of competition, emotion and celebration.

This inaugural edition will mark an additional world first. For the first time in the history of a grand slam event, elite judo and adapted-judo competitions will be organised together, under the same conditions and on the same platform. More than a sporting innovation, this initiative is a powerful reflection of the values of inclusion, equality and mutual respect that lie at the heart of judo.

Around 600 elite athletes and 120 athletes with the hearing impairments, representing more than 50 nations, are expected in Lausanne, while close to 12,000 spectators are anticipated across the three days of competition.

The event will also feature some of the biggest names in world judo, including legendary French champion Teddy Riner, whose return has been announced for this competition. Swiss fans will also have the opportunity to spectate their own home nation deaf judokas Jonas Jenzer and others

"I am really happy to announce the very first edition of the Mont-Olivet School Grand Slam 2026, a historic moment for Lausanne as it hosts, for the first time, a stage of the World Judo Tour, and the for the first time the inclusion of judo appears, as for the first time The Masters Top 18 of Deaf Judo is going to take place For two days at the Vaudoise Arena, top international judokas will come together to celebrate excellence, respect, and the spirit of challenge. This edition also marks a major milestone with the integration of deaf and hard-of-hearing judokas, a significant step toward a more inclusive and globally connected judo community. I warmly thank the International Judo Federation, the Swiss Judo Federation, the organizing committees, as well as all athletes, coaches, referees, volunteers, and partner who make this event possible" said the DIJF President Mr.Damien Antoine

Beyond the competition itself, the Lausanne Judo Grand Slam represents a broader ambition for both the city and the region. Supported by the Canton of Vaud, the City of Lausanne, the Swiss Judo Federation, the International Judo Federation and the Loterie Romande, the event forms part of a long-term strategy aimed at establishing Lausanne as a major host city for international judo events in years to come.

As the Olympic capital prepares to welcome the global judo family, excitement continues to grow. The Lausanne Judo Grand Slam 2026 promises world-class performances, spectacular ippon judo, unforgettable emotions and a unique atmosphere celebrating both elite sport and inclusion.

Because judo clubs remain at the very heart of the sport, the organising committee has also launched a dedicated ticketing offer for clubs, with preferential prices available from ten tickets purchased per organisation. Tickets are already on sale through the official event website.

In less than 100 days, a new page in judo history will begin in Lausanne. Stay tuned for more information.