The 2026 World Judo Championships continue in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Saturday, October 10, as the tournament moves into its seventh day at the National Gymnastics Arena. Italy will feature two competitors in the women’s over-78 kg category, while the men’s over-100 kg division will proceed without Italian representation, according to reports from OA Sport.
Italian Competitors in the Over-78 kg Category
Asya Tavano and Erica Simonetti will represent Italy in the women’s heavyweight division. OA Sport reports that Tavano is aiming for her first career world championship medal, though she faces a challenging path that includes a difficult match in the round of 16.
Erica Simonetti faces a difficult opening contest. She is scheduled to face Japan’s Mao Arai in her first bout of the day. This event marks the final opportunity for Italian judoka to compete at an individual level during these championships, following a week that has already yielded three medals for the national team.
Broadcast and Streaming Schedule for October 10
The seventh day of the championships follows a split schedule. The preliminary rounds are set to begin at 9:30 local time (Baku time), while the Final Block, which includes the medal contests, is scheduled for 16:00.
Viewers can access live coverage through several platforms:
- Judo TV: The official streaming platform will provide coverage of all matches, including the morning preliminary rounds.
- Television: The Final Block will be broadcast in Italy on RaiSport HD and Sky Sport Max.
- Digital Streaming: The final sessions will also be available on Rai Play, Sky Go, and NOW.
The 2026 World Championships feature 18 Italian judoka—nine men and nine women—competing across 14 weight categories. The event is a significant marker for the qualification ranking leading toward the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Baku Tournament Awards Ranking Points for Olympic Qualification
The 2026 World Championships in Baku are held over eight consecutive days, concluding on Sunday, October 11, with the mixed team event. The tournament serves as a primary fixture for the international judo season, with ranking points awarded for Olympic qualification.
Where the 2026 World Judo Championships Take Place?
Where are the 2026 World Judo Championships being held?
The event is taking place at the National Gymnastics Arena in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Are there any Italian judoka competing in the men’s over-100 kg category on October 10?
No, OA Sport reports that there will be no Italian participants in the men’s over-100 kg division for this tournament.
What is the significance of these championships for the Olympic cycle?
The tournament is a key event for the 2026 season, providing ranking points that contribute to the qualification process for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
The tournament concludes on Sunday, October 11, with the team event, marking the end of the individual and collective competition in Baku.
Worth a look
