For many years, the IJF Refereeing Commission has worked hard to ensure that refereeing remains fair, consistent and transparent, constantly refining its approach to safeguard the integrity of competition. The seminar in Lima represents a new milestone in that ongoing commitment by opening the learning experience to referees, coaches and also athletes.
During the IJF Executive Committee meeting in November 2025, IJF President Mr Marius Vizer proposed that international refereeing seminars should also be open to athletes, giving them the opportunity to understand refereeing principles better and engage in discussions directly on the evolution of the sport. Lima will be the first IJF seminar to implement this initiative, creating an even closer dialogue between those who officiate, those who coach and those who compete.
The programme will focus on the Sport and Organisation Rules (SOR) and the latest refereeing updates. Designed as an interactive learning experience, the seminar will encourage participants to ask questions, exchange views and discuss practical situations directly with members of the IJF Refereeing Commission.
While referees and coaches take part in educational seminars regularly, extending this opportunity to athletes reflects the IJF's belief that a shared understanding of the rules benefits everyone. Greater knowledge leads to greater confidence, stronger communication and, ultimately, fairer competition.
To ensure complete understanding of the topics covered, the seminar has been structured in two complementary sessions that build on each another. Participants are therefore encouraged to attend both:
- Morning session: 09:00 – 12:00
- Afternoon session: 15:00 – 18:00
Registration is mandatory and must be completed through Judobase no later than 10th August 2026.
By bringing referees, coaches and athletes together in the same educational environment, the IJF continues to strengthen a culture of openness, consistency and mutual understanding. This latest step reinforces the federation's long-standing commitment to fair refereeing while ensuring that everyone involved in judo has the opportunity to contribute to the sport's continued development.