Ukraine withdrew from the World Judo Championships because of Belarusians

The Judo Federation of Ukraine refused to participate in the World Judo Championships because of the Belarusian athletes. The Ukrainian organization reported this on its website.

It is reported that Ukrainians were outraged by the fact that earlier the International Judo Federation (IJF) allowed Belarusian athletes to participate in all world and European tournaments with state symbols — with anthem, coat of arms and flag. This decision comes into force on June 1. It is noted that Ukraine has officially appealed to the international structure with a request to confirm or deny this information. The IJF's response confirmed the above-mentioned decision and noted that the federation seeks to ensure that sport serves as a platform for dialogue, unity and mutual understanding — "building bridges, not walls."

"The Judo Federation of Ukraine strongly condemns the decision of the International Judo Federation and considers it contrary to the fundamental principles of justice, responsibility and solidarity in the world sports movement," the Ukrainian organization said.

Recall that the World Judo Championships in 2025 will be held from June 13 to June 20 in the capital of Hungary.