What a performance! At the Special Olympics Judo Open 2026 in Sarajevo, the Swiss Judo team impressively showed what’s possible with courage, passion and team spirit. With 6 gold, 5 silver and 3 bronze medals in Shiai, Switzerland secured first place in the nations’ medal table. The Swiss judokas also shone in the Kata competitions with strong performances and more medals.
Around 130 judokas from 18 nations took to the mat in Sarajevo from 25 to 26 September. For the first time, the tournament was integrated into the supporting programme of the Veterans and Kata World Championships of the International Judo Federation (IJF). For the athletes, this meant a special stage – and a wonderful opportunity to showcase their skills to an international Judo audience.
But Sarajevo was more than just a successful competition weekend. Fair play, mutual respect and a true sense of community shaped the days. At the opening ceremony, everyone danced together; on the mat, successes were celebrated together, and new friendships formed across national borders.
14 podium finishes in Shiai, more medals in Kata and countless unforgettable moments: the Swiss Judo team returns from Sarajevo with strong sporting achievements and many special memories.
You can find Mario Bontognali’s full report here.
