Roma, 22 marzo 2026 – The PalaMaggiore di Leinì in Piedmont played host to the first day of the A2 final of the Italian Cadets Championships, a competition reserved for male judokas born between 2009 and 2011. The event, which continues through tomorrow with the women’s categories, is a crucial stepping stone for young athletes aiming for national recognition.
This competition isn’t just about claiming a title; it’s about qualifying for the A1 final. The top six finishers in each weight category – including ties for fifth place – earn a coveted spot in the national final stage. For these young athletes, the stakes are high as they battle for a chance to compete against the best in Italy.
Today saw the awarding of titles in nine men’s weight classes. Manuel Ingrosso (Insieme La Spezia) emerged victorious in the 46 kg division, while Massimo Martinelli (Meloni Judo Academy Roma) took gold in the 50 kg category. Diego Meloni Resina (ASD Centro Torino) proved dominant in the 55 kg weight class, followed by Nicola Bergamelli (Bresciana Forza e Costanza) winning the 60 kg division, and Alessio Giorgiani (Banzai Roma) securing the title in the 66 kg category.
The heavier weight classes also saw intense competition. Gianluca Spanu (GSJ Terralba) claimed the top spot in the 73 kg division, with Matteo Laganà (Yoshin Ryu) winning the 81 kg category. Francesco Gambuzza (Ushijima Ragusa) took gold in the 90 kg class, and Onissim Cornescu (Mestre 2001) emerged victorious in the +90 kg division. Each of these victories represents years of dedication and training for these promising young judokas.
At the close of the first day, dedicated to men’s judo, the team standings are led by Banzai Roma with 16 points. They are closely followed by GSJ Terralba with 14 points, and Ushijima Ragusa, also with 14 points. The team competition adds another layer of excitement to the championships, as clubs vie for overall supremacy.
For complete results from today’s competition, click here.
The championships will continue tomorrow with the women’s categories taking center stage. Fans and judo enthusiasts can expect another day of thrilling competition and the emergence of future stars. The PalaMaggiore in Leinì is quickly becoming a focal point for Italian youth judo, showcasing the talent and dedication of the next generation.
The Italian Judo Federation (FIJLKAM) is overseeing the event, ensuring a fair and well-organized competition for all participants. The championships are a key part of the national development pathway for judo athletes, providing valuable experience and opportunities for growth. The success of these young athletes is a testament to the hard operate of their coaches, families, and clubs.
The town of Leinì, located in the Piedmont region of Italy, is providing a welcoming atmosphere for the athletes and spectators. The PalaMaggiore arena is a modern facility well-suited to hosting national-level judo competitions. The local community has shown strong support for the event, demonstrating the growing popularity of judo in Italy.
Looking ahead, the athletes who qualify for the A1 final will face even tougher competition as they strive for the ultimate title of Italian Cadets Champion. The championships serve as an important stepping stone for these young athletes, potentially leading to opportunities to represent Italy on the international stage. The future of Italian judo looks bright, with a wealth of talent emerging from these youth competitions.
Tomorrow’s competition will feature the women’s categories, promising another exciting day of judo action. Stay tuned for updates and results as the Italian Cadets Championships continue at the PalaMaggiore in Leinì.
