ISF and IJF to Strengthen Judo in School Sport Worldwide
May 4, Budapest, Hungary – During an official visit of ISF President Željko Tanasković to Budapest, the ISF and the International Judo Federation (IJF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the IJF headquarters, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership to further develop judo within the school sport environment worldwide.
The agreement was formalised by IJF President Marius Vizer and ISF President Željko Tanasković, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthen the role of sport as a tool for education and youth development.
As the only International Federation recognised by the International Olympic Committee for school sport, ISF continues to act as a bridge between the international sport movement and school communities, connecting International Federations with students, teachers and young people across the globe. Through major events such as the Gymnasiade and ISF World School Championships, ISF promotes education through sport and encourages intercultural exchange among youth.
Judo and Para Judo have long been part of ISF’s flagship event, the Gymnasiade, reflecting the sport’s strong educational value and universal appeal. Judo contributes to the development of young people by fostering respect, discipline, self-control and mutual understanding, while Para Judo plays an important role in promoting inclusion and accessibility in sport, ensuring that young people of all abilities can participate and thrive.
Through this new cooperation, the IJF will contribute its technical expertise to ISF events, supporting the organisation of judo competitions and ensuring high standards, qualified officials and a safe and fair environment for young athletes.
Beyond competition, both organisations will work together to expand educational initiatives and promote the core values of judo. The partnership also aims to support the recognition and development of judo within national school sport systems, further strengthening its presence at grassroots level.
In line with ISF’s mission of empowering youth through sport and education, particular attention will be given to inclusion and accessibility. The cooperation will encourage broader participation among students, with a strong focus on increasing girls’ involvement in judo.
The agreement also includes collaboration on the training and development of technical officials, contributing to the long-term growth and professionalism of school sport competitions. In addition, ISF events will serve as a platform for innovation, enabling new formats and approaches to be explored.
Sustainability and integrity remain key priorities for both organisations. ISF and IJF will work together to promote fair play, environmental awareness and inclusive values, while supporting efforts to combat discrimination in sport.
This Memorandum of Understanding highlights a shared vision to use judo as a powerful tool for education and social development. By bringing judo closer to schools worldwide, ISF continues to strengthen its role as a connector between the global sport movement and the next generation.
