The Judo Pro League, France’s premier mixed judo team championship, returns for its fourth edition in 2025-26, promising more drama, higher stakes, and a new format designed to keep fans on the edge of their seats. With 18 teams battling for supremacy, the league’s elimination phases and Final Four promise to deliver some of the most thrilling judo action in the world. Here’s everything you need to know about the teams, the schedule, and how to watch the action live.

What is the Judo Pro League?

The Judo Pro League is France’s first professional mixed judo team competition, blending men’s and women’s athletes under one banner. Created in 2022, the league has quickly become a cornerstone of French judo, offering a platform for both established stars and rising talents to compete in a high-pressure team environment. The 2025-26 edition marks the league’s fourth season, with US Orléans Judo Loiret defending their title after their triumph in the 2024 Final Four.

The New Format: More Suspense, More Drama

For the 2025-26 season, the Judo Pro League has overhauled its elimination phase format to eliminate pools and introduce a single, unified ranking system. Each of the 18 teams will play four matches—two at home and two away—against randomly selected opponents. The top eight teams at the end of these elimination rounds will advance to the quarter-finals, setting the stage for the Final Four.

A key change this season is the scoring system: a single ippon (10 points) is now enough to win a match, and two waza ari (7 points each) will also secure victory. The kinza rule has been reintroduced, allowing for more dynamic and unpredictable bouts. These changes are designed to make every match more exciting and to reward tactical brilliance and adaptability.

Teams Competing in 2025-26

The league features a mix of veteran and newly qualified teams, each bringing a unique blend of talent and ambition. The confirmed teams for the 2025-26 season include:

• AM Asnières Judo 92
• Arts Martiaux St Gratien
• Juniville Marnaval Grand Est
• Red Star Club Montreuil
• US Orléans Judo Loiret
• AC Boulogne Billancourt
• Judo Nice Métropole
• Stade Bordelais
• Six additional teams from the French 2D mixed team championship

Each team is a powerhouse in its own right, with athletes who have represented France at the Olympic Games, World Championships, and other elite competitions. The mix of experience and youth ensures that every match will be a test of skill, strategy, and endurance.

Schedule and Key Dates

The 2025-26 Judo Pro League season kicks off in October 2025, with the elimination phase running through January 2026. The quarter-finals are scheduled for February 19, 24, March 3, and March 10, 2026, with each match taking place at 7:30 PM local time (UTC+1). The Final Four will be held in April 2026 at the Dojo de Paris, marking the culmination of the season’s drama.

Quarter-Finals:

• February 19, 2026: Red Star Club Montreuil vs. Arts Martiaux St Gratien (7:30 PM CET)
• February 24, 2026: AC Boulogne Billancourt vs. Flam 91 (7:30 PM CET)
• March 3, 2026: Arts Martiaux St Gratien vs. Juniville Marnaval Grand Est (7:30 PM CET)
• March 10, 2026: Judo Nice Métropole vs. Stade Bordelais (7:30 PM CET)

How to Watch

Fans can follow the Judo Pro League live on RMC Sport, the official broadcaster for the league, in partnership with the French and International Judo Federations. This partnership ensures that all major events, including the Final Four, will be available to viewers across France and beyond.

For those unable to watch live, the official Judo Pro League website and social media channels will provide updates, highlights, and exclusive content throughout the season.

Why It Matters

The Judo Pro League is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of French judo’s rich tradition and its bright future. With the 2024 Paris Olympics fresh in the memory, the league serves as a proving ground for athletes aiming to make their mark on the world stage. The mix of strategy, athleticism, and teamwork on display makes it a must-watch for judo enthusiasts and casual fans alike.

As the league evolves, it continues to push the boundaries of what mixed judo can achieve, both on and off the tatami. The 2025-26 season promises to be the most competitive yet, with every team fighting for a place in the history books.

What’s Next

The draw for the elimination phase matches was held on June 27, 2025, and the first matches of the season are set to begin in October. Keep an eye on the official calendar for updates on match times, venues, and team lineups.

As the season unfolds, expect thrilling upsets, standout performances, and moments that will define the future of French judo. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the sport, the Judo Pro League offers something for everyone.

Key Takeaways

• The Judo Pro League returns for its fourth edition in 2025-26, featuring 18 teams and a new, more dynamic format.
• Teams play four matches in the elimination phase, with the top eight advancing to the quarter-finals.
• Scoring rules have changed: a single ippon or two waza ari now decide a match.
• Quarter-finals are scheduled for February and March 2026, with the Final Four in April 2026.
• All matches are broadcast live on RMC Sport, with updates available on the official website and social media.

Ready to dive into the action? Follow the Judo Pro League on their official website for the latest news, match schedules, and exclusive content. And don’t forget to tune in to RMC Sport for live coverage of the quarter-finals and Final Four.

What team do you think will come out on top this season? Share your predictions in the comments below!