Dushanbe will host the Judo Grand Slam for the third time, bringing together some of the world’s top judo athletes. The IJF World Tour event, the Dushanbe Grand Slam, will take place from May 1 to 3, 2026, in the capital of Tajikistan. The competition has become a staple on the international calendar, marking a significant development in the country’s hosting of major sporting events.
In 2023, Dushanbe hosted a Grand Prix tournament, and following its success, the competition’s status was elevated to that of a Grand Slam— a more prestigious and higher-ranking event.
A key event for global athletes
The upcoming Grand Slam will see top judo athletes from around the world gather in Dushanbe, where they will compete for valuable ranking points in the International Judo Federation (IJF) world standings. These points directly influence athletes’ positions in the global rankings and their seeding in major international competitions.
In addition to ranking points, cash prizes will be awarded: €5,000 for the winner of each weight category, €3,000 for the silver medalist, and €1,500 for the bronze medalists. As a result, the Dushanbe Grand Slam will remain one of the key events of the spring season in the judo calendar.
Last year’s success and expectations
In last year’s Grand Slam in Dushanbe, 226 athletes from 27 countries competed. The Tajikistan team delivered an outstanding performance, winning 4 gold, 3 silver, and 4 bronze medals, which secured them the top spot in the overall medal tally.
The upcoming tournament will be the third major event of this level in Dushanbe, positioning the capital as a regular host of international sporting competitions. For Tajikistan, it is not just a sporting milestone but also an important image-building project, showcasing the country’s ability to host world-class events.
A chance for global stars and local fans
The tournament is expected to feature fierce competition, a packed schedule, and performances from the world’s top-ranked judokas. For Tajikistan’s fans, it will be a unique opportunity to witness the elite of global judo on home turf. For the national team, it will be a chance to showcase their skills once again before their local supporters.
