In Tbilisi, judo became a bridge beyond the championship arena

Around the European Judo Championships 2026 in Tbilisi, one moment stood out for reasons far beyond competition results. France Judo organised a session at the French School of the Caucasus, continuing a wider series of initiatives linked to major international events.

The project brought together France Judo, the European Judo Union and the Georgian Judo Federation. In the spirit of Jita Kyoei, the aim was not about medals or rankings, but about showing how judo can connect people and reinforce ties across Europe.

That European dimension was central. Officials and representatives from France, the EJU and Georgia met in a setting focused on sharing experience, building understanding and creating something meaningful with young people from different communities. It was a simple idea, but one with real weight.

Gevrise Emane, Education Director of the EJU and Vice President of France Judo, described the event as a valuable chance to pass on expertise developed by France Judo in a spirit of solidarity and collective growth. She also underlined what makes judo special: its ability to bring people together when the world often seems to move in the opposite direction.

The visit also included EJU representative Kristiina Pekkola, Georgian champion Tego Zirakashvili and delegates from the French Judo Federation. EJU President Dr Tóth László was also referenced for encouraging Executive Committee members to share best practices across all 51 National Federations.

Not every important judo moment happens under the spotlight of finals.

In Tbilisi, this school visit offered a quieter kind of impact during championship week. It was less about spectacle and more about message, and that message was clear: judo still has the power to build bridges across Europe.

Source: EJU_News