Russian judoka Iago Abuladze won the gold medal at the Grand Prix stage held in Odivelas, Portugal.
Abuladze took first place in the category up to 66 kg. He defeated Azerbaijani representative Yaşar Najafov in the final match.
In the women’s category, Daria Kurbonmamadova won the silver medal in the 57 kg category, losing to South Korean Ha Mi-Mi in the final. Glafira Borisova won the bronze medal in the weight category up to 52 kg.
The tournament in Portugal has the status of a qualifying event for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. It will end on January 28.
On December 8, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) allowed Russia to participate in the 2024 Olympic Games with neutral status. The organization said Russian athletes will be required to sign updated terms of participation, which include a commitment to respect the Olympic Charter, including the “peaceful mission of the Olympic movement”. Russian athletes who rank well in their disciplines will be allowed to compete.
The Summer Olympic Games will take place between July 26 and August 11, 2024.
Former Olympic medalist from Russia statedthat he is not upset about the lack of international tournaments.