The agreement was formalised by IJF President Marius Vizer and Željko Tanasković, President of the ISF, marking the launch of a strategic partnership to strengthen judo within school sport worldwide.
Recognised by the International Olympic Committee, the ISF organises major international school competitions such as the Gymnasiades, promoting education through sport. The IJF, as the global governing body for judo, contributes its expertise in to the development and organisation of high-level competitions.
Through this co-operation, the IJF will support the technical organisation of judo events within ISF competitions, ensuring high standards and the presence of qualified officials. The objective to deliver safe, fair and technically sound competitions for young athletes is clear.
Beyond competition, the partnership aims to expand educational programmes and reinforce the values of judo, respect, discipline and integrity. The two organisations will work together to establish judo as a recognised sport within national school sport federations, strengthening its presence at grassroots level.
Inclusion is at the heart of the agreement. The IJF and ISF are committed to encouraging participation among all students, with a strong focus on promoting girls’ involvement in judo. By making the sport accessible to more young people, they aim to increase confidence and improve personal development.
The collaboration will also contribute to the training of technical officials through dedicated education and assessment programmes, ensuring long-term growth and professionalism. In addition, school competitions will serve as a platform for innovation, allowing new formats and ideas to be tested.
Sustainability and integrity are key pillars of the agreement. Both organisations will promote fair play and environmental awareness and will support efforts to combat discrimination and racism in sport.
This Memorandum of Understanding reflects a shared vision to use judo as a powerful tool for education and social development. By bringing judo into schools worldwide, the IJF and ISF are helping to shape a new generation guided by strong values on and beyond the tatami.