European Judo Cup Skopje 2026: 439 judokas from 42 countries to compete at Jane Sandanski

The entry list is finalised and Skopje is ready to host a major international judo event this weekend: the European Judo Cup for seniors – Skopje 2026, scheduled for 19 and 20 September 2026.

A total of 439 judokas from 42 countries across four continents have confirmed participation, organisers said. Matches will take place in the Jane Sandanski hall on both days, running from 09:00 to 19:00, and public admission is free.

Opening ceremony and high-level delegation

The formal opening is set for Saturday at 16:00, when senior officials from the European judo community and representatives of participating nations are expected to attend. The tournament is part of the senior European Cup calendar and will award points that count toward Olympic qualification.

Vladimir Trpanovski, president of the Judo Federation of North Macedonia, commented on the federation’s preparations: "We are fully prepared to continue the continuity of successfully organised top judo competitions. As a result of the high evaluations for our organisation so far, we were given the privilege to host this Cup which will be the most numerous so far within this competition in any European country. Let me remind once again that the best European and world judokas have announced their arrival, because the results will be scored for the Olympic Games, so we expect a top-level competition."

The European Cup carries its name because it is held on European territory, although athletes from all continents are eligible to compete. Organisers say they expect large spectator turnout given the free entry and the high sporting stake of the event.

Photo: press material from the event