In a week we will be able to say that the World Judo Tour 2024 has started and that it is already in full swing. However, serious things are not waiting for the first matches of the Portugal Grand Prix to begin.

All weekend, referees, coaches and experts from the International Judo Federation met in Gyor, Hungary, to discuss technique and tactics so that everyone is in tune with this Olympic season which is opening.

The refereeing rules were obviously at the centre of the discussions and the IJF Referee Commission detailed all the rules which will be applied in the months to come. Things are clear: there are no changes because with just a few months to go before Paris 2024, it is not possible to change the rules. Everything therefore continues in line with what was observed in 2023 and since Tokyo 2021. It nevertheless remains true that it is always useful and necessary to remind people of the rules and to do so in a studious and friendly atmosphere.

During these two days, crucial information on sports and education were also shared with all participants. Vladimir Barta, IJF Sport Director, therefore detailed the sporting calendar for the Abu Dhabi World Championships, which will take place in the Emirati capital over 6 days (19th to 24th May: 5 individual days and 1 day for mixed teams). He also clarified the qualification deadlines for the event. Then, important information regarding Olympic qualification and the Games, as well as statistics, were given.

Mohammed Meridja, IJF Education and Coaching Director, detailed the regulations concerning Olympic judogi, provided information on the Olympic solidarity programme and the IJF Master Coach Licence.

The two days were intense and allowed everyone to get up to speed and work together, while in a few days it will be time to concentrate on the competitions, the ranking points and the list of Olympic qualifiers.

Follow the seminar live: https://judotv.com/

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