The International Judo Federation (IJF) has unveiled a key rule modification aimed at enhancing both the safety and excitement of judo matches. This change, which will take effect in the upcoming competitive season, is part of the IJF’s broader effort to create more dynamic and fluid contests while ensuring fairness and athlete protection.
Starting next season, judoka will no longer be permitted to launch attacks directly from defensive positions such as the turtle or other grounded postures. The IJF is pushing for competitors to adopt a more active approach by requiring them to move into a standing or semi-standing position before initiating any offensive technique. The goal of this regulation is to encourage more engaging and aggressive bouts, reducing passive defensive strategies that tend to slow down the pace of matches.
IJF President Marius Vizer shed light on the reasoning behind this adjustment, emphasizing the need to maintain the intensity and competitiveness of the sport. “Our aim is to make judo more captivating for the audience and to reward athleticism and technique over stalling tactics,” Vizer stated. The rule is seen as a way to ensure judo remains a high-energy, spectator-friendly sport while promoting superior skills and preventing lengthy periods of inactivity.
The rule has sparked mixed reactions within the judo community. Some athletes view it as a positive shift that will push competitors to be more versatile and proactive. Top-ranked judoka Shohei Ono expressed support, saying, “This will encourage everyone to take more initiative. You can’t rely on just defending anymore.” On the other hand, some athletes are concerned that this could disadvantage judoka who rely on technical and defensive strategies, favoring those with more aggressive styles and explosive power.The IJF plans to closely observe the implementation of this rule during regional and international competitions leading up to major events like the World Judo Championships. Referees are receiving training to apply the rule consistently, and the IJF is open to making further adjustments based on how it affects the competition.
As part of an ongoing initiative to modernize judo, this rule change marks a pivotal moment in the sport’s evolution, potentially reshaping competitive strategies for years to come.
