Three years on and the Games has already proven to be a huge success, even though there are still two days to run until the closing ceremony. The Scottish city of Glasgow stepped in, proud of the work done to deliver the 2014 edition and knowing the volunteers and local organisers would rally for 2026, and rally they did!
Present in Glasgow are International Judo Federation President Mr Marius Vizer and IJF Secretary General Dr Lisa Allan, proud to be able to celebrate judo in such a multi-cultural environment, the unique Games spirit visible in the stands, in the warm-up room and on the competition tatami.
IJF President Mr Marius Vizer extended his sincere congratulations to everyone involved. The federation presidents, the team from Commonwealth Sport led by their President Dr Donald Rukare, Glasgow 2026 and all the delegations have pulled together with admirable, consistent judo values. These values of respect and friendship, combined with a commitment to fair play, have been at the heart of all they have contributed.
IJF Secretary General Dr Lisa Allan said, “The organisation is very smooth and I am so happy to be here to enjoy it. This is my home country and I feel very proud of all that is being achieved here.
We are grateful to the Commonwealth Sport Federation and President Rukare. After Australia cancelled, Glasgow stepped in at the last minute, delivering a great Games with extraordinary challenges being overcome throughout. Thank you to all our federation presidents, team officials and delegation athletes for taking part in this event with such a positive spirit, always abiding by our shared judo values.”
Dr Donald Rukare was happy to share some thoughts about the judo event, “I took up this challenging role full time in November, having been in an interim position from April, and so this has been a high-speed seventeen months ensuring we can deliver an outstanding flagship event for Commonwealth Sport. This was our simple, primary focus: to deliver an excellent games.
Here I am enjoying world-class judo, great relationships with the sport presidents; here at the SEC especially with Mr Vizer. It is important for all our athletes, throughout the Commonwealth, to enjoy their experience and to feel everything was done for them to be able to perform at their best and get the most out of this wonderful Games. Across the ten sports and 4 venues, I feel we have done that, and at the judo event this is clearly visible.”