"VAN" (Sports Desk - 11.04.2026) :: The reach and impact of judo in Kazakhstan is impressive. In a country that stretches across vast open land, judo can be found everywhere and this has been no easy task.
In Kazakhstan though there is a government committed to the development of sport nationwide, illustrated by the presence of Republic of Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on day one of the Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam.
For the Kazakh athletes and coaches, it is a great honour to not only thrill their public but to do so under the gaze of their head of state. Talgat Orynbassar and Sherzod Davlatov both reached the -60 kg podium under these conditions, further enhancing the image of judo across Kazakhstan.
By the end of the first day of competition in Astana, France held the top of the medal table in their hands. Blandine Pont took gold at -52 kg and Faiza Mokdar doubled their haul by taking gold at -57 kg. Mongolia followed France.
Kazakhstan Delivers Atmosphere, Culture and Friendship
Day two delivered in so many ways, from outstanding, powerful judo to full stands of cheering judo fans and an opening ceremony that celebrated judoka from around the world as well as the culture and traditions of Kazakhstan.
The opening ceremony captured the essence of this final World Judo Tour event before the Olympic qualifying season begins. Local dancers and musicians filled the Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov Martial Arts Palace in Astana with sparkle.
To welcome those present in the arena and everyone watching online, H. E. Mr Yerbol Myrzabossynov, Minister of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, gave the first address.
“Dear sports fans, dear athletes and coaches, I warmly congratulate all of you here at the opening of the Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam; the grand slam, in judo, is considered one of the most prestigious competitions in the world. This tournament brings together 300 athletes from 36 countries.
"Judo is one of the most developed and widely promoted sports in our country. More than 150,000 people are engaged in it on a regular basis and it attracts significant interest from fans who monitor the performances of our athletes closely.
"Hosting such a large-scale event in our country demonstrates the high level of trust from the International Judo Federation in Kazakhstan. It also provides a great opportunity for our athletes to strengthen their positions on the global stage. In this regard, I would like to express my gratitude to the Astana City Administration and the leadership of the national federation for their contribution to the organisation of today’s competition.
"I wish the strongest athletes, those whose skill and fortune align, to stand on the winners’ podium. I wish everyone the best of luck!”
Kazakhstan Judo Federation President Mr Kuanyshbek Yessekeyev then took the floor: “Dear guests, dear members of the judo family, ladies and gentlemen, dear Mr Marius Vizer, welcome to Kazakhstan!
"It is a great honour for us to welcome you and the respected delegation of the International Judo Federation to our country. On behalf of the Kazakhstan Judo Federation, I warmly welcome all of you to the opening ceremony of the Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam here in Astana.
"Today, we gather for more than just a world-class sporting event. We gather to celebrate the spirit of judo: respect, friendship, discipline and excellence. These values bring people together beyond borders and make our sport truly special.
"For Kazakhstan, hosting a tournament of this level is both a great honour and a big responsibility. In recent years, we have worked hard to grow our experience, strengthen our organisation and build our place on the world judo map. Today, we are proud to welcome the best athletes from around the world to our home.
"Sincerely, I would also like to thank all the fans and guests who joined us today. Your support creates a special atmosphere and gives extra energy to every athlete on the tatami. To all competitors, I wish fair fights, strong performances and memorable victories. To our international guests, I wish a warm welcome and wonderful memories of Kazakhstan. Thank you for being here with us today. Welcome to the Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam and let us enjoy a great celebration of world judo together.”
To complete the speeches, IJF President Mr Marius Vizer stepped forward: “Dear distinguished Minister of Sport, dear Kazakhstan Judo Federation President, distinguished guests, spectators, partners and family members, it is a great occasion to be back in Astana, in a country of sport. This is a special country of judo, a country of energy and innovation.
"On this occasion I want to thank and express my appreciation to H.E. President Tokayev for continuously supporting sport and the new generation, and especially judo. I want to congratulate the Kazakhstan Judo Federation and the Mjnistry of Sports for all youth programmes, Judo in Schools and our IJF Academy partnership with the International federation.
"I also want to congratulate everyone for the organisation of next year’s world championships. Thanks to all spectators who have offered a great atmosphere. I wish you a successful competition and I open the grand slam here in Astana. Thank you.”
Cr-AIPS
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