In a prominent judo event held in Odivelas, Portugal, Iago Abuladze of Russia secured the gold in the up to 66 kg division. He defeated Yaşar Najafov of Azerbaijan in a tightly contested final to claim the top podium position.
In the women’s competition, the 57 kg category saw Daria Kurbonmamadova reach silver after a fierce final with Ha Mi-Mi of South Korea. Glafira Borisova finished with bronze in the up to 52 kg weight class, rounding out the event’s podium.
The Portugal tournament serves as a qualifying stage for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, with the competition window extending through January 28. Athletes gathered points and podium results that feed into Olympic rankings, shaping the field for Paris and influencing selections across the sport. The event plays a pivotal role in the Olympic cycle, underscoring its importance for competitors aiming to secure a place on the world stage.
Earlier in December, the International Olympic Committee announced that Russian athletes may participate in the 2024 Olympic Games under a neutral status. The IOC noted that competitors would need to sign updated terms, which require adherence to the Olympic Charter and a commitment to the peaceful mission of the Olympic movement. Those who perform well in their events under this neutral framework would be eligible to compete, provided they meet established criteria and demonstrate compliance with the charter’s principles.
The Paris Games are scheduled from July 26 to August 11, 2024, a global event that blends sport, culture, and international camaraderie. This timeline positions the Odivelas event as an essential early step in the journey toward Paris, allowing athletes to test techniques, refine competition routines, and gauge readiness for the Olympic stage.
Commentators noted that a veteran Olympic medalist from Russia voiced a calm perspective about the absence of broader international exposure, suggesting that ongoing national and regional competitions provide sufficient preparation and motivation as athletes navigate the evolving landscape of international sport under the neutral status policy. This sentiment reflects a broader view among many competitors who prioritize steady competition and consistent results while preparing for Paris, rather than chasing every tournament. [citation attribution]