Antonio Coruña Melián, Pioneering Figure in Spanish Judo, Dies at 76
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain – Antonio Coruña Melián, the longtime president of the Federación Canaria de Judo and a member of the Real Federación Española de Judo y Deportes Asociados (RFEJYDA) board, has died at the age of 76. The news, confirmed by the RFEJYDA on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, marks a significant loss for the Spanish judo community.
Coruña Melián passed away following an irreversible health issue, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to the sport he championed for decades. The RFEJYDA expressed its profound sorrow, acknowledging his fundamental role in the development and promotion of judo throughout the Canary Islands and beyond. His passing is being mourned by judo organizations, clubs, and athletes across Spain.
A Life Dedicated to Judo
Born August 10, 1949, in the San José neighborhood of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Coruña Melián’s athletic journey began in Canarian wrestling at the age of nine. However, it was judo that truly captured his passion. He began training at 16, guided by his brother Andrés Coruña and instructor Amado Ramos, quickly becoming a pioneer for the sport in the Canary Islands.
Coruña Melián wasn’t just a leader; he was a competitor. He became the first judoka from the Canary Islands to compete internationally and represented Spain for a decade. His competitive career included four Spanish Championships – in Barcelona (1969), Gijón (1970), San Sebastián (1971), and Madrid (1979) – alongside numerous regional titles, a military championship, and a silver medal at the Mediterranean Games. A later injury unfortunately prevented him from pursuing his Olympic dreams, but it didn’t diminish his commitment to the sport.
Building a Judo Legacy in the Canary Islands
Following his competitive career, Coruña Melián turned his focus to building a strong foundation for judo in the Canary Islands. He founded the Federación Canaria de Judo in 1994 and served as its president for over 30 years. Under his leadership, the federation organized significant events, including the Spanish Senior and Veteran Championships and several European championships, bringing international attention to the region.
His commitment to fostering the sport extended beyond event organization. He played a crucial role in the development of generations of athletes and the strengthening of the federative structure within the Canary Islands. He was known for his approachable demeanor, dedication to service, and unwavering belief in the core values of judo: respect, discipline, and camaraderie.
Recognition and Accolades
Coruña Melián’s contributions to judo were widely recognized throughout his career. In 2018, he received the 9th Dan, the highest judo grade in Spain, a testament to his expertise and dedication. In 2024, he was honored nationally during the gala celebrating the 75th anniversary of the RFEJYDA, held in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Just last year, in 2025, the Federación Canaria de Judo was awarded the Francisco Valcárcel Trophy as the “Best Federation in Spain,” a crowning achievement under his presidency.
The RFEJYDA and other regional federations, clubs, and athletes have extended their deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. His legacy, they say, will live on in every dojo and in the hearts of every judoka who had the opportunity to learn from his example.
The impact of Antonio Coruña Melián extends beyond statistics and accolades. He was a driving force in popularizing judo within the Canary Islands, creating opportunities for athletes and fostering a community built on the principles of the sport. For many, he wasn’t just a president, but a mentor and a friend.
As the Spanish judo community mourns his loss, his dedication and passion will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of athletes and leaders. The sport in the Canary Islands, and indeed across Spain, has lost a true champion.
The Federación Canaria de Judo has not yet announced details regarding memorial services. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
