Teddy Riner Returns: French Judo Legend to Compete at Lausanne Grand Slam 2026

LAUSANNE — The judo world will witness the long-awaited return of one of its greatest champions next month when Teddy Riner steps onto the mat at the inaugural Lausanne Grand Slam. The 37-year-old French heavyweight, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and 11-time world champion, will make his competitive comeback August 28–30 at the Vaudoise Arena in Switzerland’s Olympic capital, marking his first appearance since undergoing elbow surgery in early 2025.

Why This Return Matters

Riner’s comeback carries weight far beyond the tatami. After securing his third Olympic title in the +100kg category at Paris 2024, the 2.04-meter (6-foot-8) judoka took an 18-month hiatus to recover from surgery and prepare for what he calls his “final chapter” — the 2028 Los Angeles Games. “Returning to competition is always a powerful moment,” Riner said in a statement released by the Lausanne Grand Slam organizers. “Lausanne is an critical step to acquire back into rhythm and regain my sensations.”

The Lausanne Grand Slam itself represents a milestone for Swiss judo. Announced by the International Judo Federation (IJF) in December 2025, the event is the first of its kind in Switzerland, a country with a deep judo tradition. “Hosting this Grand Slam reinforces the central role of the State of Vaud in international sport,” said Christelle Luisier Brodard, President of the Council of the State of Vaud. “It will also serve as a platform to highlight best practices in sport inclusion and to launch initiatives that promote physical activity for all ages.”

The Road to Lausanne

Riner’s absence from competition has been one of the longest of his career. Since his last match at the Paris Olympics, he has focused on rehabilitation and strategic planning. His return in Lausanne is seen as a tune-up for the 2026 World Championships in Baku (October 4–11), where he will aim to add to his record 11 world titles. “He hopes to shine as early as this autumn in Baku,” the organizers noted, though Riner has not confirmed his participation in the event.

The French judoka’s decision to compete in Lausanne is also symbolic. The city, home to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has nurtured Swiss judo talent, including rising stars like Binta Ndiaye, a junior world championship medalist. “It is wonderful recognition for the Lausanne judo clubs that nurtured Binta Ndiaye,” said Emilie Moeschler, Lausanne’s Municipal Councillor for Sports and Social Cohesion. “She, like the other champions, will be energized by the enthusiasm of the crowd at the Vaudoise Arena.”

What to Watch in Lausanne

Riner’s return is the headline, but the Lausanne Grand Slam will feature a stacked field. Switzerland’s own Nils Stump, the 2023 world champion in Doha, and Daniel Eich, a seven-time World Judo Tour medalist, are expected to compete. The event will also showcase emerging talents like April Fohouo, another Swiss judoka with junior world championship medals to her name.

For Riner, the focus will be on shaking off rust and testing his physical readiness. His elbow surgery in early 2025 was a setback, but his team has described his recovery as “ahead of schedule.” The Grand Slam format, which awards ranking points for the 2028 Olympics, will provide a high-stakes environment for Riner to gauge his progress. “This represents not just a comeback,” said a source close to Riner’s camp. “It’s a statement.”

The Bigger Picture: Riner’s Olympic Ambitions

Riner’s goal is clear: a fourth individual Olympic gold in Los Angeles. At 37, he would become the oldest Olympic judo champion in history if he succeeds. His longevity is a testament to his adaptability and discipline, but the road to 2028 is fraught with challenges. The heavyweight division is more competitive than ever, with younger athletes like Japan’s Tatsuru Saito and Georgia’s Guram Tushishvili emerging as serious contenders.

The Lausanne Grand Slam offers Riner a chance to reassert his dominance before the World Championships. A strong performance could silence doubts about his age and physical condition, while a lackluster showing might force a reassessment of his Olympic plans. Either way, his return is a moment fans and analysts will scrutinize closely.

Key Details for Fans

Event: Lausanne Grand Slam 2026
Dates: August 28–30, 2026
Venue: Vaudoise Arena, Lausanne, Switzerland
Riner’s Weight Class: +100kg (Men’s Heavyweight)
Live Coverage: Expected to be streamed on the International Judo Federation’s official website and broadcast on Olympic Channel platforms.

What’s Next?

After Lausanne, Riner’s next confirmed checkpoint is the 2026 World Judo Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan, from October 4–11. If he competes, it will mark his first major test since the Paris Olympics. For now, judo fans can gaze forward to his return in Lausanne — a city that will provide the perfect stage for the sport’s most decorated active athlete.

What do you believe of Teddy Riner’s chances at the 2028 Olympics? Will he secure a historic fourth gold? Share your thoughts in the comments below.