The Judo World Tour has officially returned to Budapest, as the Papp Lazlo Arena opened its doors to athletes representing 67 different nations for an action-packed first day of the Hungary Grand Slam 2026.
In the women’s -48Kg category, the final saw Kristina Dudina face off against Sabina Giliazova. Following a closely contested technical battle that extended into golden score, Giliazova emerged victorious to claim the gold medal. The awards were presented by IOC Member Mr. Mustapha Berraf.
The men’s -60Kg division featured 18-year-old Izhak Ashpiz, who was competing in his third consecutive Grand Slam medal match. The youngster secured his second career Grand Slam gold with a precisely timed Ura-nage. Mr. Alejandro Blanco, President of the Spanish National Olympic Committee, performed the medal ceremony.
For the -52Kg final, Poland’s Barbara Twarowska challenged Spain’s Ayumi Leiva Sanchez. Leiva Sanchez earned her first career Grand Slam gold after scoring a yuko. IOC Member Mrs. Filomena Fortes presented the medals to the athletes.
Bulgaria’s Boyan Yotov demonstrated dominant form throughout the competition, maintaining his momentum in the -66Kg final. After securing a Waza-ari, Yotov executed an Ippon to decisively claim the gold. The medals were awarded by IOC Member Mrs. Petra Sörling.
The -57Kg final was won by Haruka Funakubo of Japan, a 2023 world silver medalist. Funakubo secured her victory with a clean yuko score followed by superior ground work. Dr. Laszlo Toth, Vice President of the International Judo Federation, awarded the medals. The host nation delivered a high-level performance throughout the day, setting a competitive tone for the second day of the tournament.
