The Italian judo team participated in the Grand Slam in Budapest, marking a crucial stop on the World Tour before the World Championships in Baku, according to reports from sports outlets covering the event. Over 500 athletes from 68 countries gathered at the László Papp Arena for the eleventh stop of the international circuit, which serves as a major qualifier for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Delegation Structure and Key Contenders in Budapest
The roster blends returning veterans seeking world ranking points with athletes working to secure top-eight seedings ahead of the upcoming global championships.
Among the headliners, Odette Giuffrida returned to competition in the -52 kg category after a nearly three-month layoff caused by a shoulder injury. That previous injury had forced her to withdraw from a potential final against Uta Abe in Ulan Bator. In Budapest, Giuffrida entered the draw as the top seed, aiming to maintain her consistent season form.
Pirelli Eyes Top World Ranking Spot
Gennaro Pirelli entered the -100 kg tournament carrying strong momentum from a series of consecutive victories, including titles at the European Championships, a Grand Slam in Mongolia, and a Grand Prix in Lima. Those results lifted him to second place in the International Judo Federation’s world ranking list.
Championship Implications and Seeding Battles
Beyond medals and prize money, the Budapest tatami offered vital ranking points for the year-end Masters tournament, reserved exclusively for the top 36 athletes in each weight class. Several Italian competitors sat just outside the top eight in their respective international rankings, making every match in Hungary essential for favorable draws at the world championships scheduled for October 4–11 in Baku.
The Italian men’s lineup featured Andrea Carlino in the 60 kg division, Elios Manzi and Matteo Piras at 66 kg, Giovanni Esposito and Federico Bosis at 73 kg, Manuel Parlati at 81 kg, Christian Parlati and Kenny Komi Bedel at 90 kg, and Gennaro Pirelli at 100 kg. The women’s squad included Giulia Ghiglione at 48 kg, Kenya Perna and Odette Giuffrida at 52 kg, Carlotta Avanzato at 63 kg, Irene Pedrotti and Giorgia Stangherlin at 70 kg, and Claudia Sperotti at 78 kg.
Next Steps on the Road to Baku
With the Budapest Grand Slam concluding its three-day run on Sunday, the Italian national team shifts its focus directly to final preparations for the World Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan, set to take place from October 4 through October 11.
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