British Judo to Host Inaugural European Judo Championships Uniformed Services
June 26, 2026
British Judo is delighted to announce that it will host the inaugural European Judo Championships of Uniformed Services, bringing together judoka from police, military, prison, fire and rescue, border force and other uniformed services from across Europe.
The historic event will take place on 22–23 August 2026 at the University of Wolverhampton, Walsall Campus, marking the first edition of the championship under the European Judo Union (EJU).
Delivered in partnership with the EJU, the championship will celebrate the unique relationship between judo and the uniformed services, providing a high-level international competition while strengthening collaboration, friendship and professional connections between services from across the continent.
The event is open to members of recognised uniformed organisations, with competition taking place across two age divisions (Elite – ages 18+, and Veterans – aged 35+) under current IJF rules.
Judo has long held a special place within the uniformed services, where its values of respect, discipline, courage and self-control closely align with the qualities required in operational roles. The championships will showcase the high standard of judo practised within these organisations while highlighting the sport’s contribution to physical readiness, resilience and personal development.
The event is open to the following services*:
- Military Services
- Police
- Firefighting Services
- Paramedic Services
- Customs
- Disaster Management
- Coastguard
- Mountain Rescue
- Border Guard
- Civil Protection Services
- Prison Service
* This list is indicative, and members of other similar uniform services may also be accepted.
Welcoming the announcement, British Judo Chair, Gerry Gualtieri said:
“We are honoured to host athletes, coaches, officials, and delegates from across Europe for what promises to be an outstanding celebration of judo, camaraderie, and mutual respect. This event represents far more than competition alone; it reflects the shared values that unite both the judo community and the uniformed services — discipline, integrity, courage, and respect.”
“British Judo is proud to provide the platform for competitors from military, police, fire, and other uniformed organisations to come together through sport, strengthening friendships and international cooperation both on and off the tatami.”
Event outlines and booking are now open for the event. Event outlines can downloaded here with entry for British athletes open on the event page.
British Judo looks forward to welcoming Europe’s uniformed service judoka to the West Midlands this August for a memorable celebration of judo, service and international friendship.
