Kata Worlds: A Closing Celebration of Study and Excellence

Written by Nicolas Messner on 27. Sep 2026

Photographs by Nicolas Messner, Gabriela Sabau

The World Championships Kata Sarajevo 2026 concluded with the final eight categories: Nage-no-kata for cadets; Katame-no-kata for cadets and juniors; Ju-no-kata for cadets and juniors; Kime-no-kata, Kodokan Goshin-jutsu and Itsutsu-no-kata for seniors.

Across two days, 220 pairs from 24 countries took to the tatami. They did not oppose one another in the usual sense of the word. They measured themselves against the same exacting standards, in the spirit of kata as envisioned by Jigoro Kano Shihan and developed by those who followed him.

A calm, concentrated atmosphere prevailed throughout the competition, yet the joy at its conclusion was unmistakable. Medallists and non-medallists alike left Sarajevo with the sense of work accomplished. For many, there was also the satisfaction of having performed well. For all, the championships offered a clear direction: to continue refining their kata, deepening their understanding of judo principles and bringing greater harmony to every movement.

Competition matters and the final rankings are an important recognition of that work. Yet kata is never limited to a result. It remains a tool for learning, education, transmission and the preservation of judo’s roots, allowing the discipline to remain modern, dynamic and alive.

Twenty-one countries left Sarajevo with at least one medal. Japan, the birthplace of judo, topped the medal table with five gold medals and one silver. Korea followed with two gold, three silver and two bronze medals, while Italy took third place with two gold, two silver and one bronze. Germany, Spain, France and the Netherlands each also claimed at least one title.

Congratulations to every medallist and to every pair that took part. Congratulations also to the organisers, whose work made these two days possible. The next edition now lies ahead. Until then, the task remains the same: to learn, to progress and to refine both kata and the human qualities that give it meaning.