Swiss judo celebrates landmark day at Lausanne Grand Slam

Lausanne hosted a historic judo event, with the signing of the 2028 World Championships agreement and the opening of the Grand Slam. Adaptive judo athletes also participated, and local favorite Aurélien Bonferroni earned a bronze medal. The day marked a significant moment for Swiss judo.

The Lausanne Grand Slam delivered a milestone moment for Swiss judo, pairing high-level competition with an administrative breakthrough. Organizers formalized the agreement to host the 2028 World Championships, positioning the country for a prominent role on the international judo calendar. The event's opening also showcased adaptive judo, bringing athletes with disabilities into the same competitive spotlight.

For the home crowd, Aurélien Bonferroni's bronze medal provided a personal highlight, underscoring the depth of local talent. The day's blend of elite bouts, inclusive programming, and a future major championship commitment reflects a broader momentum within Swiss combat sports, suggesting growing institutional support and public interest in judo's development across the country.