Lausanne Grand Slam 2026: Switzerland Celebrates a Historic Judo Day
Lausanne marked a major day for Swiss judo as the 2028 World Championships agreement was signed, the Grand Slam was officially opened and adaptive judo athletes joined the action. Aurélien Bonferroni’s bronze delighted the home crowd.
The annual ECOLE MONT-OLIVET LAUSANNE GRAND SLAM took place in Switzerland, with the Vaudoise Arena hosting the event. Before the competition, Marius Vizer, president of the International Judo Federation, and Sergei Ashchwanden, president of the Swiss Judo Federation, signed a contract to bring the 2028 world championships to Switzerland.
Mr. Vizer officially opened the grand slam, followed by speeches from various dignitaries including Emilie Moëschler, Christelle Luisier Brodard, Sergei Ashchwanden, Demien Antoine, and Kazuhiro Mikami Sensei. Mikami was awarded his 10th dan, the highest rank in judo. The competition saw deaf judoka participating alongside their peers, with Angelika SZYMANSKA winning the -63 kg category with her trademark arm lock.
Daniel CARGNIN took the gold in the -73 kg final, while Miriam BUTKEREIT and Giovanna SCOCCIMARRO of Germany won the -70 kg final. Simon BENHAMOU, CEO of CBH Bank, and IOC Member Mr. Mustapha BERRAF awarded the medals. Swiss team members performed strongly throughout the second day, with Aurelien BONFERRONI winning a bronze medal for the home nation. The final day of competition awaited.
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