Spain Junior Judo Championship 2026: Pamplona to Host Final Phase

Pamplona, Spain, is set to host the final stage of the 2026 Spanish Junior Judo Championship on Saturday, January 31st, at the Navarra Arena. The competition will bring together young judokas aged 15 to 20, marking a significant event for the sport’s rising talent.

A Showcase of Junior Judo Talent

A total of 304 judokas will participate, with 158 competing in the men’s categories and 146 in the women’s. The event begins on Friday, January 30th, with team accreditation and judoka weigh-ins scheduled between 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM, followed by the competition draw.

Navarra’s Representatives

Navarra will be represented by seven judokas in the championship. They are: Manuela Saborido (-48 Kg., Ribera Navarra), Marta Beorlegui (-52 Kg., Natación Pamplona), Carla Iribarren (-70 Kg., Navarro de Lucha), Nerea García (-78 Kg., JC Lizar), Elias Monreal (-90 Kg., Natación Pamplona), Aritz Lavado (-100 Kg., Leóon Pamplona), and Izan Puente (+100 Kg., JC Erice).

Did You Know? The competition will feature judokas across eight weight classes, encompassing both male and female athletes.

Beyond the competitors, the event will also include the participation of two Navarran referees, Victor Rojas and Irati Díaz, who will be responsible for officiating the matches.

What’s Next?

Following the weigh-ins and draw on Friday, the championship is expected to deliver a full day of competition on Saturday, starting at 9:00 AM. The results could potentially highlight emerging stars within Spanish junior judo. It is possible that successful athletes may be considered for future national and international events. Further details are available in the attached document.

Expert Insight: Hosting a national championship like this provides a valuable platform for young athletes to gain competitive experience and exposure. The presence of local referees also underscores the region’s commitment to the development of judo.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the competition begin?

The competition begins on Saturday, January 31st, at 9:00 AM.

How many judokas will be participating?

A total of 304 judokas will participate, with 158 in the men’s categories and 146 in the women’s.

Who are the Navarran referees involved?

Victor Rojas and Irati Díaz are the two Navarran referees who will be officiating the event.

What impact could this championship have on the future of judo in Navarra and Spain?