INTERNATIONAL JUDO FEDERA TION

DOCUMENT

SOR
Sport and Organisation Rules

Version: 12 March 2024

Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PRELUDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 Preamble and Basic Principles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
1.1.1 Behaviour at IJF Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
1.2 Clean Judo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
1.2.1 Disciplinary Committee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
1.2.2 Match Fixing and Competition Manipulation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
1.2.3 Safeguarding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
1.3 Insurance and Civil Liability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
1.4 Gender Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1.5 Minor Athletes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1.6 IJF Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1.7 Athlete Nationality. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1.7.1 Change of Athlete Nationality. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
1.7.1.1 Change of Athlete Nationality for a Period of Less than Three Years. . . . 17
1.7.1.2 Change of Athlete Nationality after a Period of Three Years or Longer . . 17
1.7.2 Special Circumstances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
1.7.2.1 Athletes with an Official Refugee Status under Host Country. . . . . . . . . . 18
1.7.2.2 IJF Refugee Team. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
1.7.2.3 Junior and Younger Immigrants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
1.8 Referee Nationality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
1.8.1 Change of Referee Nationality. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
COMPETITION RULES
2.1 Competition Format and Schedules for the IJF World Judo Tour. . . . . . . . . . 21
2.2 Weight Categories for IJF WJT Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
2.2.1 Weight Categories for Individual Competitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
2.2.2 Weight Categories for Mixed Team Competitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
2.2.3 Weight Categories for Team Competitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
2.3 Age Groups. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
2.4 Time Duration of Contests. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
2.5 Competition Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
2.5.1 Direct Knockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
2.5.2 Quarter-final Repechage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
2.5.3 Double Repechage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
2.5.4 Full Repechage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
2.5.5 Round Robin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
2.5.6 Best of Three . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
2.6 Regulations for Low Numbers of Athletes or Teams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
2.6.1 Low Numbers System for IJF WJT Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
2.7 Competition System for Mixed Team and Team Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
2.7.1 Regulations for Mixed Team Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
2.7.2 Regulations for Female and Male Team Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

page - 2
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

2.8 Event Outlines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

2.8.1 Visas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
2.8.2 Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
2.8.3 Accommodation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
2.8.4 Training. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
2.8.5 Consent for use of data/photography/videos/filming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
2.9 Official Notice Boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
IJF WORLD RANKING LISTS
3.1 IJF World Ranking Lists. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
3.2.1 IJF Seniors World Ranking List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
3.2.2 IJF Juniors World Ranking List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
3.2.3 IJF Cadets World Ranking List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
3.3 IJF World Ranking Lists for Mixed Teams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
3.3.1 IJF Seniors Mixed Teams World Ranking List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
3.3.2 IJF Juniors Mixed Teams World Ranking List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
3.3.3 IJF Cadets Mixed Teams World Ranking List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
3.4 IJF Nations World Ranking List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
3.5 Additional Rules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
ENTRIES AND ACCREDITATION
4.1 Participation Rules for IJF WJT Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
4.2 Entries for IJF WJT Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
4.3 Cancellation of Athletes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
4.4 Number of Entries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
4.5 Accreditation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
DRAW
5.1 Draw Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
5.2 Seeding for IJF WJT Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN
6.1 Location of the Official Weigh-in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
6.2 Official Weigh-in Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
6.2.1 Individual Events Official Weigh-In. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
6.2.2 Mixed Teams Official Weigh-in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
6.2.3 Female and Male Teams Official Weigh-in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
6.3 Official Weigh-in Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
6.3.1 Failure to Appear for the Official Weigh-in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
6.3.2 Failure to Weigh Within the Prescribed Limits of a Category. . . . . . . . . . . . 65
6.3.3 Failure to Comply with Official Directions or with the Requirements of the
IJF SOR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
6.3.4 After Official Weigh-in Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
6.4 Random Weigh-in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
6.4.2 Collecting the Athletes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
6.4.3 Random Weigh-in Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
6.4.4 After Random Weigh-in Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

page - 3
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

EDUCATION AND COACHING

7.1 Coaches’ Code of Conduct. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
7.2 Coaches’ Dress Code. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
7.3 Contest Review Process. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
COMPETITION VENUE
8.1 Venue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
8.2 Training Venue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
8.3 Judogi Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
8.4 Warm-Up Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
8.5 Athlete Seating and Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
8.6 Entry to and Exit from Field of Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
8.7 Field of Play and Competition Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
8.8 Medical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
8.9 Media. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
8.10 Awarding Ceremonies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
8.11 Delay, Postponement or Cancellation of a Competition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
REGULATIONS FOR VETERANS
A1.1 Organisation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
A1.2 Competition Rules for Veterans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
A1.3 Eligibility to Participate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
A1.3.1 Event Inscription. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
A1.4 Age Divisions for Veterans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
A1.5 Weight Categories for Veterans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
A1.6 Time Duration of Contests for Veterans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
A1.7 Category Combining for Veterans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
A1.8 Draw for Veterans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
A1.9 Seeding for Veterans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
A1.10 Weigh-in for Veterans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
A1.11 Judogi Rules for Veterans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
A1.12 Backnumbers for Veterans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
A1.13 Competition System for Veterans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
A1.14 Round Robin Golden Score . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
A1.15 Awarding of Medals for Veterans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
REGULATIONS FOR KATA
B1.1 Eligibility to Participate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
B1.2 Accreditation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
B1.3 Draw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
B1.4 Competition Formula. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
B1.5 Judges and the System of Judging. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
B1.6 Competition Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
B1.7 Awarding Ceremony. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
B1.8 Coaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
B1.9 Medical Situation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
B1.10 Judogi Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
page - 4
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

IJF JUDOGI RULES

C1.1 IJF Approved Judogi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
C1.1.1 Location of the Judogi and Backnumber Pre-Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
C1.1.2 Judogi and Backnumber Pre-Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
C1.1.2.1 Judogi Pre-Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
C1.1.2.2 Backnumber Pre-Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
C1.1.3 Consequences of Failing Judogi Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
C1.1.4 Judogi Control Verification Positions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
C1.1.5 Judogi Control Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
C1.2 IJF Label. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
C1.3 Location of the Manufacturer’s Logo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
C1.4 National Emblem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
C1.5 Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
C1.6 Additional Advertising Reserved for the Athlete. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
C1.7 Marking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
C1.8 Backnumber. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
C1.9 Judogi Colour. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
C1.10 Judogi Size. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
C1.11 T-shirt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
C1.12 Reserve Judogi Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
C1.13 National Technical Officials’ Duties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
C1.14 World Champion and/or Olympic Champion Titles Enhancement . . . . . . . 109
C1.14.1 Procedure Regarding World Champion Title(s). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
C1.14.2 Procedure Regarding Olympic Champion Title(s). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
IJF REFEREEING RULES
D1.1 Refereeing - Culture, History and Principles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Article 1 Referees and Officials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Article 2 Position and Function of the Referee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Article 3 Role of Non-Officiating Referees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Article 4 Gestures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Article 5 Location (Valid Areas). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Article 6 Duration of the Contest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Article 7 Osaekomi Time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Article 8 Technique Coinciding with the Time Signal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Article 9 Start of the Contest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Article 10 Transition from Tachi-waza into Ne-waza (A) and from Ne-waza into
Tachi-waza (B) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Article 11 Application of Mate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Article 12 Sono-mama. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Article 13 End of the Contest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Article 14 Ippon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
Article 15 Waza-ari . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Article 16 Waza-ari-awasete-ippon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
Article 17 Osaekomi-waza. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

page - 5
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Article 18 Prohibited Acts and Penalties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

Article 18.1 Shido (Slight Infringements Group) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Article 18.1.2 - Shido for an Illegal Move. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
Article 18.1.3 Shido for Untidy Attire or Hair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Article 18.2 Hansoku-make (Grave Infringements Group) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
Article 18.2.1 Hansoku-make for Dangerous Techniques. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
Article 18.2.2 Hansoku-make for Acts against the Spirit of Judo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
Article 18.3 Double Hansoku-make. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
Article 18.3.1 Double hansoku-make (Indirect). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
Article 18.3.2 Double hansoku-make (Direct). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
Article 19 Default and Withdrawal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
Article 20 Injury, Illness or Accident. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163
Article 21 Situations not Covered by the Refereeing Rules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
IJF MEDICAL AND ANTI-DOPING HANDBOOK
E1.1 Medical Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
E1.1.1 Decision Making on the Field of Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
E1.1.2 Decision Making off the Field of Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
E1.1.3 Rights and Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
E1.2 Medical Suspension Following Concussion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
E1.3 Hygiene. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
E1.4 Wearable Medical Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
E1.5 Doctors’ Code of Conduct. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
E1.6 Doping Control Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
E1.6.1 Event Testing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
E1.6.2 Selection Procedure for Doping Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
E1.6.3 Athlete Notification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
E1.6.3.1 Modification of Notification for Minor Athletes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
E1.6.4 Laboratory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
SPORT COMPETITION
F1.1 IJF Event Phases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
F1.2 Athlete Scoreboards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175
F1.3 Standard Forms for IJF Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176
F1.3.1 Delegation Control List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176
F1.3.2 Weigh-in List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
F1.3.3 Contest Order. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
F1.3.4 Referees’ List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
F1.3.5 Contest Sheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180
F1.3.6 Direct Knockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181
F1.3.7 Quarter-Final Repechage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182
F1.3.8 Quarter-Final Repechage up to 64 Athletes or Teams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
F1.3.9 Quarter-Final Repechage up to 32 Athletes or Teams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184
F1.3.10 Quarter-Final Repechage up to 16 Athletes or Teams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
F1.3.11 Quarter-Final Repechage up to 8 Athletes or Teams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186

page - 6
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.12 Double Repechage up to 64 Athletes or Teams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

F1.3.13 Double Repechage up to 32 Athletes or Teams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188
F1.3.14 Double Repechage up to 16 Athletes or Teams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
F1.3.15 Double Repechage up to 8 Athletes or Teams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
F1.3.16 Full Repechage up to 32 Athletes or Teams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
F1.3.17 Full Repechage up to 16 Athletes or Teams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
F1.3.18 Five (5) Athletes or Teams - Option 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
F1.3.19 Five (5) Athletes or Teams - Option 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
F1.3.20 Four (4) Athletes or Teams - Option 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
F1.3.21 Four (4) Athletes or Teams - Option 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
F1.3.22 Three (3) Athletes or Teams - Option 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
F1.3.23 Three (3) Athletes or Teams - Option 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
F1.3.24 Example of Winners’ List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
F1.3.25 Example of Mixed Teams Line Up Confirmation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
F1.3.26 Example of Mixed Teams Line Up Confirmation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
F1.3.27 Example of Mixed Teams Team Sheet - with Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
F1.3.28 Example of Mixed Teams Match Sheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
F1.3.29 Coach Suspension Form. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
F1.3.30 Article 18 Direct Hansoku-make Form. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
F1.3.31 Coaches Request to Review Action. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
F1.3.32 Record Sheet - Judogi Breaches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
GLOSSARY
G1.1 Glossary of Japanese Terms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
G1.2 Names of Judo Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216
G1.2.1 Nage-waza (68). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216
G1.2.2 Katame-waza (32). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218
G1.3 Penalty Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
G1.4 Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222
DOCUMENT CONTROL
H1.1 Version History. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225

page - 7
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

PRELUDE
Abbreviations
CARE - Computer Assisted Replay system
c/o - Care of
EOG - Event Organisation Guide
IJF - International Judo Federation
IOC - International Olympic Committee
IRT - IJF Refugee Team
LOC - Local organising committee
NOC - National Olympic Committee
SOR - Sport and Organisation Rules
WJT - World Judo Tour
WRL - World Ranking List

In the International Judo Federation (IJF) Sport and Organisation Rules (SOR) the
masculine gender is used to refer to any physical person, (i.e., member, leader, team
official, participant, athlete, coach, judge, referee, or chaperone, etc.) and it shall, unless
there is a specific provision to the contrary, be understood to include the feminine
gender. The terms “national judo federation” and “national federation” shall refer to a
member of the IJF.

For translations of Japanese terms refer to Appendix G.

Exceptional Situations
Any situation that is not covered by the IJF SOR shall be dealt with by the IJF Executive
Committee. If an urgent decision is needed and an Executive Committee decision is
not possible the IJF Ad Hoc Commission should be composed of one (1) representative
from Refereeing, one (1) from Sport and one (1) from Education and Coaching. If
possible, composition of the Ad Hoc Commission should include one (1) IJF elected
official.

Amendment to the Sport and Organisation Rules

The IJF is entitled to amend its rules and regulations in a reasonable manner at any
time, based on its operation and management needs and pursuant to legal procedures.
The IJF will notify such amendments to its members by any method as the IJF deems
appropriate (including but not limited to memorandum email, website publication, or
declaration at a meeting, etc.).

The latest version of the IJF SOR can be downloaded at:

https://www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/25 or sor.ijf.org

Additional Resources
IJF Disciplinary Code: www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3
IJF Code of Ethics - www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3
IJF Education and Coaching Commission documents: www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/11
IJF Governance Policies: www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3
IJF Referee Commission documents: www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/22
IJF Sport Commission documents: https://www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/25

page - 8
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Contacts
Presidential Office: [email protected]
Secretary General and General Secretariat: [email protected]
Anti-doping: [email protected]
Finance: [email protected]
JudoTV: [email protected]
Judobase: [email protected]
Media: [email protected]
Medical: [email protected]
World ranking list cadets: [email protected]
World ranking list juniors: [email protected]
World ranking list seniors: [email protected]

Clean and Safe Judo

Abuse, harassment, neglect and negligence can be reported here:
https://reportabuse.judobase.org/form

Antidoping rule violations can be reported here:

https://reportdoping.judobase.org/form

Integrity and compliance reports on match fixing and competition manipulation can be
reported here:
https://reportintegrity.judobase.org/form

Websites
www.ijf.org
My.ijf.org
Judobase.ijf.org
JudoTV.com

The original language of this document is English except for Appendix C and the IJF
Disciplinary Code and Code of Ethics, which have been translated from French.

Comments and feedback can be sent to [email protected]

Changes from previous version (24 April 2023) can be found at the end of this
document.

page - 9
GENERAL
INFORMATION
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

1.1 Preamble and Basic Principles

The International Judo Federation (IJF) Sport and Organisation Rules (SOR) in
conjunction with the IJF statutes, finance regulation, contract with the relevant national
judo federation (hereafter referred to as national federation) and the IJF Event
Organisation Guide (EOG), are the binding documents for the holding of the events on
the IJF World Judo Tour (WJT). For all events on the WJT the IJF has final appellate
jurisdiction.

Specific supplemental procedures will be issued for the holding of judo competitions at
the Summer Olympic, and Youth Olympic Games and other multi-sport games.

Events will be allocated to host organising committees following the IJF Statutes Article
19.

The IJF shall accept control over other judo competitions whenever this is so directed
by the Executive Committee or the IJF Congress. This requires adherence to the above
rules and documents. In such judo competitions refereeing and technical organisation
may be dealt with by the continental union or regional body and supervised by the
officials nominated by the IJF.

A national federation or individual taking part in the sport of judo are deemed to have
agreed to and be bound by this SOR and if found not following the rules may face
disciplinary action.

1.1.1 Behaviour at IJF Events

Everyone attending an IJF WJT event should always be mindful of their behaviour,
following the judo values. Unacceptable behaviour, violence or aggression will not
be tolerated. Any athlete who disrespects their opponent at the end of a contest risks
disqualification, removal of prize money and of World Raking List (WRL) points and a
disciplinary action may be initiated.

Disciplinary action will be taken against any athlete refusing to leave the tatami. If a
coach is present in the coaches’ chair he must intervene otherwise he will also face
disciplinary action. If a coach is not present in the chair the IJF Education Commission
will intervene to remove the athlete from the tatami.

1.2 Clean Judo

Integrity, discipline, and ethics are core principles in judo, both on and off the field of
play. The IJF Disciplinary Code and IJF Code of Ethics can be found here:
www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3.

Further information on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Code of Ethics can be
found in this document “Olympic Movement Code on the Prevention of the Manipulation
of Competitions”:

https://stillmed.olympics.com/media/Document%20Library/OlympicOrg/IOC/What-
We-Do/Protecting-Clean-Athletes/Competition-manipulation/Code-Prevention-
Manipulation-Competitions.pdf

Betting companies and organisations responsible for betting cannot be used on any
advertising and marketing materials used on the IJF WJT.

page - 11
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

1.2.1 Disciplinary Committee

The IJF Executive Committee has the authority to establish a Disciplinary Committee to
evaluate presumed violation of the IJF rules and it reserves the right to take disciplinary
measures in the case of cheating, misconduct and any behaviour contrary to the ethics
and moral values of sport, particularly judo, and any violation of the IJF SOR.

The IJF Disciplinary Committee will take sanctions in compliance with the IJF
Disciplinary Code (www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3). If during an IJF event, starting from
the arrival (normally airport or train station) at the event and until the departure from the
event, there is an incident an immediate decision to suspend anyone involved may be
taken on the spot. This decision will be placed under the responsibility of an Executive
Committee member, nominated before each event by the IJF President, who will form
an IJF Ad Hoc Commission to deal with the issue. The IJF Ad Hoc Commission will
consist of IJF Executive Committee members or their representatives.

Any incident will be communicated immediately to the IJF President, IJF Executive
Committee members and the IJF Disciplinary Committee. A possible sanction decision
will be taken after having heard the person/people concerned and any potential
witness(es). If the concerned person is a minor, an adult responsible for the delegation
will accompany them, during the discussion. As soon as the decision is taken, the
IJF Ad Hoc Commission will immediately inform the IJF President, the IJF Executive
Committee and the IJF Disciplinary Committee about its decision.

A report of the incident and final decision should be sent to the IJF Disciplinary
Committee, c/o the IJF General Secretariat ([email protected]), within three days of the date of
the incident. The report will be written by the Education and Coaching Commission and
must state the following: the facts, including the recall of the alleged facts, a summary
of the observations and arguments of the parties, the grounds for the decision and any
other comments.
The IJF Disciplinary Committee, upon receipt of the documents, will inform those
involved about its decision 15 days after the date of the incident. The IJF Disciplinary
Committee will decide the start date and the duration of the suspension.

If an individual disagrees with a decision, a written appeal may be submitted to the

IJF Disciplinary Committee, c/o the IJF General Secretariat ([email protected]), within one
calendar month from the incident date. In the case of suspension, the decision will stand
until the outcome of the appeal is heard.

1.2.2 Match Fixing and Competition Manipulation

The integrity of sport depends on the outcome of sporting events and competitions being
based entirely on the merits of the participants involved.

The IJF has rules dedicated to sports integrity in relation to betting. There are four core
rules to remember:
• Always do your best, never fix a contest.
• Never bet on your competition, never bet on your sport.
• Never share information that could be used for betting purposes, or any form of
manipulation of sports competitions or any other corrupt purposes whether by the
participant or via another person and/or entity.
• If you are approached to cheat, speak out!

page - 12
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Any form of corruption that might undermine public confidence in the integrity of a judo
contest is fundamentally contrary to the spirit of sport and subject to severe sanctions.

Competition manipulation is defined as an intentional arrangement, act or omission

aimed at an improper alteration of the result or the course of a sports competition to
remove all or part of the unpredictable nature of the sports competition with a view to
obtaining an undue benefit for oneself or for other. If a contest takes place and seems to
have been played to a predetermined result, violating the IJF rules, further investigation
may be undertaken, and any findings of match fixing will result in disciplinary action.

If in IJF events, an athlete is injured or ill before a contest and needs to withdraw they
must have a medical certificate from the IJF Medical Commissioner.

The IJF may undertake further investigation and any findings of match fixing will result in
disciplinary action. The result of the contest will be cancelled if any athlete is caught not
telling the truth.

Match fixing and competition manipulation can be reported, anonymously and

confidentially, here: https://reportintegrity.judobase.org/form. Any report made in
good faith will not be sanctioned. Any form of retaliation against whistle-blowers is
prohibited and such action will be sanctioned.

Failure to report to the IJF at the first available opportunity any information about betting,
match fixing or competition manipulation including that could amount to a violation of the
SOR.

The following conducts constitute a violation of the SOR:

• Failing to cooperate with any investigation carried out by the IJF in relation
to a possible breach of this regulation, including, without limitation, failing to
provide accurately, completely and without undue delay any information and/or
documentation and/or access or assistance requested by the IJF as part of such
investigation.
• Obstructing or delaying any investigation that may be carried out by the IJF
in relation to a possible violation of this regulation, including without limitation
concealing, tampering with, or destroying any documentation or other information
that may be relevant to the investigation.

1.2.3 Safeguarding
The IJF Policy for Safeguarding Athletes and Other Participants from Harassment and
Abuse applies to all persons affiliated with the IJF including athletes and can be found
here: https://www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3

Harassment or harassment and abuse includes:

Physical or psychological abuse means any improper and unwelcome conduct that
might reasonably be expected or be perceived to cause offence, harm, or humiliation to
another.

Sexual abuse (which can be a form of physical and/or psychological abuse). means
any unwanted, groomed or forced involvement in sexual behaviour, unwelcome verbal
or physical conduct or gesture of a sexual nature (e.g., the use of offensive stereotypes
based on gender, sexual jokes, threats, intimidation) that might reasonably be expected
or be perceived to cause offence or humiliation to another.

page - 13
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Harassment can be based on any grounds such as race, religion, colour, creed, ethnic
origin, physical attributes, gender, or sexual orientation. It can include a one-off incident
or a series of incidents. It may be in person or online. Harassment may be deliberate,
unsolicited and coercive. Harassment and abuse often result from an abuse of authority,
meaning the improper use of a position of influence, power or authority by an individual
against another person.

Cases of harassment and abuse can be reported on the Clean Judo platform and will be
investigated by the IJF Disciplinary Committee in compliance with the IJF Disciplinary
Code (www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3).

Any alleged incidents of harassment and abuse will be regarded as confidential and
personal information (including name, date of birth, address, identification numbers) will
not be disclosed, except, for example, if the concerned person gives his prior consent,
if disclosure is necessary to protect someone from harm or if a potential criminal act
comes to the attention of the IJF.

Harassment and abuse can be reported, anonymously and confidentially, here:

https://reportabuse.judobase.org/form

1.3 Insurance and Civil Liability

Each national federation is directly responsible for its athletes (including the control of
non-pregnancy and the control of gender). It must assume all responsibility for accident,
health and civil liability insurance for everyone under their charge during events.

National federations are responsible to provide insurance guarantees to their delegates

during any IJF WJT event. The LOC of the event and the IJF will not be responsible in
the absence of insurance.

The entity contractually bound to the IJF for the organisation of the event shall take
all necessary actions to provide insurance coverage against civil liability for the entire
duration.

It is the responsibility of the national federation to ensure that in addition to their normal
insurance they have sufficient insurance in place to cover any SARS CoV-2 (COVID-19)
or its variants or communicable disease, related costs, including repatriation.

The LOC of the event and the IJF accept no liability for any claims of injury, illness or
death arising from the travelling to and the participation in this event nor any claims
relating to the cancellation of the event or medical costs related to illness, due to SARS
CoV-2 (COVID-19) or its variants or other communicable disease(s), that may affect a
participant during the event.

page - 14
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

1.4 Gender Control

The national federation shall be responsible for identifying and registering the athlete’s
gender. Any decisions of a national federation concerning an athlete’s gender, including
but not limited to the change of gender must be sent immediately to the IJF General
Secretariat, by email ([email protected]).

Complaint by a national federation, a continental union, or a member of the IJF

Executive Committee concerning an athlete’s gender may be filed within 21 days from
the effective date of the change of gender under the IJF Athlete Eligibility Regulations
(found in IJF Governance Policies - www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3). Complaints must be
sent to the IJF General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]).

If the complaint concerns a change of gender, the IJF Executive Committee will consult
the Independent Experts appointed in accordance with the IJF Athlete Eligibility
Regulations (found in IJF Governance Policies - www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3) and
decide if it is necessary to initiate the investigation regarding the compliance with the
eligibility conditions set forth by the IJF Athlete Eligibility Regulations (found in IJF
Governance Policies - www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3).

The decision of the IJF Executive Committee under this Section 1.4 may be appealed in
accordance with the IJF Statutes.

1.5 Minor Athletes

The national federation is responsible for obtaining legal approval and permission for
minor athletes to compete in competitions. When travelling with minors the team official/
coach must have all the necessary documents in place that authorises them to act on
behalf of the parents/guardians “in loco parentis”.

This also applies to doping control. The national federation must ensure that minor
athletes have their parental/guardian permission to undergo testing (see Appendix
E1.6.3.1).

1.6 IJF Calendar

The IJF Executive Committee will agree and approve the schedule for all IJF events.
The IOC will approve the schedule for the Summer Olympic Games and Summer Youth
Olympic Games.

The current IJF calendars can be found on the IJF website:

https://www.ijf.org/calendar?age=all

1.7 Athlete Nationality

The athlete must be a national of the country of the national federation that inscribes
him for the competition. The evidence of nationality shall be the production of a valid
passport issued by the represented country. Persons appointed by the Executive
Committee of the IJF shall verify the nationality of the athletes. Should the athlete be
unable to produce their passport a decision will be made on whether to accept an
alternative form of identification.

If an athlete has multiple citizenships, they may compete for only one country.

page - 15
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Where the national federation does not have a passport with that nationality, the
passport issued by their Government will be accepted (e.g., American Samoa (USA),
Aruba (Netherlands), Cook Islands (New Zealand), Curacao (Netherlands), Guam
(USA), Sint Maarten (Netherlands), Puerto Rico (USA) and US Virgin Islands (USA)).

Athletes who have permission to take part in IJF events under the IJF SOR rule 1.7.2
who do not have a valid passport issued by the represented country must present either
a photographic identity or refugee travel document and the IJF authorisation letter.

1.7.1 Change of Athlete Nationality

An athlete who has represented one country in:
• Olympic Games
• World championships (seniors, juniors, cadets)
• Continental championships (seniors, juniors, cadets)
• Regional competitions recognised by the IJF
• Continental or regional games and multi-sport games (such as African Games, Asian
Games, Commonwealth Games, European Games, Francophone Games, Islamic
Games, Mediterranean Games, Pan American Games, Youth Olympic Games)
• International tournaments organised by the IJF (Grand Prix, Grand Slam, Masters,
etc.) or under its auspices (Continental Open and Cup events)
• All competitions in the IJF calendar except veterans, kata, military, and club
championships*
• Other competitions recognised by the IJF

and who wants to change his nationality may represent his new country provided that:

a) The two (2) national federations (current country and new country) concerned
agree, they may request the IJF to shorten the period of three years or even to cancel
the duration completely (see Olympic Charter, Rule 41 and the Byelaw to Rule 41).
Thus, the IJF can’t shorten the three years’ period without written agreement from both
national federations concerned and the athlete having a valid passport for the new
country (refer to 1.7.1.1),

or

b) At least three years have passed since the athlete last represented his former country
(refer to 1.7.1.2).

*Veterans, military, and kata participants are excluded from this rule and can change
nationality at any time provided they have a passport for the new country. Athletes
should contact the new federation to have a profile made in Judobase for their new
nationality. The new national federation must inform the IJF General Secretariat, by
email ([email protected]).

For participation in a specific event the request of nationality change must be sent 21
days before the registration deadline. If the request is not sent on time the IJF cannot
guarantee that it will be processed on time.

Junior and younger immigrant athletes do not need to follow the change of nationality
process if the criteria in section 1.7.2.3 is met.

Refer also to Section 3 IJF World Ranking Lists, 3.5 Additional Rules.

page - 16
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

1.7.1.1 Change of Athlete Nationality for a Period of Less than Three Years
The IJF must approve the request to shorten the three year period so an athlete can
represent a new national federation.

The following documents must be sent to the IJF General Secretariat, by email
([email protected]) by the new national federation:
• Letter (not older than three (3) months) from the President of the national federation
(the current country) certifying the absence of objection to the change of the
nationality of the concerned athlete.
• Letter (not older than three (3) months) from the President of the national federation
(the new country) authorising the athlete to represent them in international
competitions.
• Letter (not older than three (3) months) from the athlete (or parent/legal guardian if
the athlete is a minor), who has already represented one country, giving evidence of
their wish to represent their new national federation. A copy of the athlete passport
proving the nationality of the new country.

Once all documents have been received and verified the IJF General Secretariat
will send it for an IJF Executive Committee vote. Following the vote the IJF General
Secretariat will inform both national federations of the result.

1.7.1.2 Change of Athlete Nationality after a Period of Three Years or Longer

The IJF must be informed if an athlete wants to represent a new national federation if a
period of three years or longer have passed since he competed for his previous national
federation.

The following documents must be sent to the IJF General Secretariat, by email
([email protected]):
• Letter (not older than three (3) months) from the President of the new national
federation (the new country) authorising the athlete to represent them in international
competitions.
• Letter (not older than three (3) months) from the athlete (or parent/legal guardian if
the athlete is a minor), who has represented one country, giving evidence of their
wish to represent their new national federation.
• A copy of the athlete passport proving the nationality of the new country.

Once all documents have been received and verified the IJF General Secretary will send
it to the IJF Executive Committee for information and will confirm the nationality change
to the new national federation, with the former national federation in copy.

1.7.2 Special Circumstances

For events organised by the IJF or under its auspices, the IJF Executive Committee,
to protect the interest of the athlete, can authorise that the athlete can compete under
the IJF or a neutral flag for any reason (for example: non-official refugee status of
the athlete, non-recognition of the National Olympic Committee (NOC) by the IOC,
suspension of the national federation, unable to represent their national federation, etc.).

Applications should be sent to the IJF General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]). If

the application is approved the athlete is responsible to ensure they have their own
accident, health and civil liabilities insurance.

page - 17
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

1.7.2.1 Athletes with an Official Refugee Status under Host Country

An athlete with an official refugee status, hosted by a country, can qualify themselves for
IJF or continental union competitions through their host country national championships
and consequently they will compete internationally under their host country flag.
Mutli-sport games etc. are not included as those events have specific rules regarding
nationality.

The national federation requests must be sent, with the official refugee status
documents, to the IJF General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]). If the documents sent
are compliant, the agreement will be automatically given by the IJF Secretary General.

If there is a change in the status of the official refugee i.e., citizenship of a new country,
return to their country of origin etc. The nationality change process must be followed.

If there is a change in the status of the official refugee who competed under the IJF flag
i.e., citizenship of a new country, return to their country of origin etc. the IJF Executive
Committee would decide concerning the change of nationality and the world ranking
points that the athlete has.

All documents relating to the new status and change request must be submitted to the
IJF General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]), within a deadline of at least 15 days
prior to the closing date of registration for a certain event.

1.7.2.2 IJF Refugee Team

Athletes with an official refugee status, competing as part of the IJF Refugee Team
(IRT) may take part in events provided that they have an IJF authorisation letter. They
may take part in a continental championships in the continent that they are a refugee in.
To be authorised to compete in the said event, they must have already participated in an
international competition (minimum continental cup) and be insured.

1.7.2.3 Junior and Younger Immigrants

Junior men and women (aged 15 to 20 years in the calendar year) and younger foreign
athletes living in a host country can participate in their host country national junior and
younger championships and thus qualify themselves for IJF or continental union junior
and cadet competitions.

They can be registered, by the national federation of the host country if they meet the
following requirements:
• To prove their residency in the host country (at least three (3) months).
• To prove the integration of their parents or legal guardians in the host country (at least
three (3) months).
• To prove their integration in the school or university system or proof of employment
(at least three (3) months).
• To prove their integration in a judo club of the host country, duly affiliated to the
national federation which is an IJF member.
• Agreement of the athlete.
• Authorisation of the parent/guardian (if athlete is a minor).

In certain cases authorisation may be requested from the national federation of origin. If
the athlete has any world ranking points these will be kept.

page - 18
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

If the national federations of host countries wish to register these athletes, they must
send their request each year to the IJF General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]), with
the above-mentioned documents.

The IJF will review the submitted documents and if deemed compliant, the IJF will
approve the request. The IJF General Secretariat will reply authorising the athlete to
compete under the new host country flag in cadet and junior events for a period of one
(1) year.

For participation in the world championships junior, as senior World Ranking List (WRL)
points are given, the decision will be made on a case-by-case basis by the IJF Head
Sport Director.

Should the athlete wish to return to representing his country of origin he must inform
both national federations involved and the IJF General Secretariat, by email
([email protected]). If the athlete has any world ranking points these will be kept.

Should the athlete change residence to another host country, he should repeat the
application process by submitting the documents proving the relocation to the IJF
General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]). If the athlete has any world ranking points
these will be kept.

1.8 Referee Nationality

The referee must be of the same nationality as the one in the IJF database (Judobase).
The IJF Referee Commission shall verify annually the nationality of the referee. The
evidence of citizenship shall be the production of a valid passport issued by the
represented country.

A referee shall represent only one country within the same Olympic cycle.

If a referee has multiple citizenships:

• He shall inform the IJF Referee Commission he depends on.
• He shall choose only one nationality, which he will represent during the ongoing
Olympic cycle.
• He shall not referee an athlete who has the same citizenship(s) as he does.

If a referee holds a function within a national federation of a country, he doesn’t hold the
citizenship of, he shall inform the IJF Referee Commission he depends on and shall not
referee an athlete representing this national federation.

The concerned IJF Referee Commission shall inform the IJF IT Team of the nationalities
and national functions of each referee, for the technical draw procedure of referees.

1.8.1 Change of Referee Nationality

A referee shall inform the IJF of any change regarding his nationality.

A referee who has represented a country in an IJF official competition and who has
changed his nationality or acquired a new nationality may represent his new country in
the next Olympic cycle.
A referee cannot represent a new national federation without the approval of the IJF.

page - 19
COMPETITION
RULES
The competition rules are the responsibility of the IJF
Sport Commission.
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

2.1 Competition Format and Schedules for the IJF World

Judo Tour
The International Judo Federation (IJF) World Judo Tour (WJT) is a series of judo
events that include a competition (contests between athletes for medals and prize
money) and other sport-related activities (i.e., accreditation, draw etc.).

The IJF WJT competitions: Grand Prix, Grand Slam, Masters, World Championships
Cadets, Juniors, Seniors and Open normally consist of two (2) sessions, the
preliminaries and the final block. The competition phases that take place in the sessions
depend on the type of event. Any changes to this will be agreed and approved by the
IJF Head Sport Director. Depending on the number of participants some rounds may not
be required for every category. The competition schedule for non IJF WJT events should
be agreed by all interested parties.

IJF Events planned for 2 days (Grand Prix, Grand Slam, Masters)
Women Men
Day 1 -48 kg, -52 kg, -57 kg, -63 kg -60 kg, -66 kg, -73 kg
Day 2 -70 kg, -78 kg, +78 kg -81 kg, -90 kg, -100 kg, +100 kg
IJF Events planned for 1 or 2 days (World Championships Open)
Day 1 1 day event - Women and Men, day 1 of 2 - Women or Men
Day 2 Day 2 of 2 - Men or Women
IJF Events planned for 3 days (Grand Prix, Grand Slam, Masters)
Day 1 -48 kg, -52 kg, -57 kg -60 kg, -66 kg
Day 2 -63 kg, -70 kg -73 kg, -81 kg
Day 3 -78 kg, +78 kg -90 kg, -100 kg, +100 kg
IJF Events planned for 5 days (World Championships Cadets)
Day 1 -40 kg, -44 kg -50 kg, -55 kg
Day 2 -48 kg, -52 kg -60 kg, -66 kg
Day 3 -57 kg, -63 kg -73 kg, -81 kg
Day 4 -70 kg, +70 kg -90 kg, +90 kg
Day 5 Mixed Teams
IJF Events planned for 5 days (World Championships Juniors)
Day 1 -48 kg, -52 kg -60 kg, -66 kg
Day 2 -57 kg, -63 kg -73 kg
Day 3 -70 kg -81 kg, -90 kg
Day 4 -78 kg, +78 kg -100 kg, +100 kg
Day 5 Mixed Teams
IJF Events planned for 6 days (World Championships Seniors)
Day 1 -48 kg, -52 kg -60 kg
Day 2 -57 kg -66 kg, -73 kg
Day 3 -63 kg -81 kg
Day 4 -70 kg, -78 kg 90 kg
Day 5 +78 kg -100 kg, +100 kg
Day 6 Mixed Teams

page - 21
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

IJF Events planned for 8 days (World Championships Seniors)

Day 1 -48 kg -60 kg
Day 2 -52 kg -66 kg
Day 3 -57 kg -73 kg
Day 4 -63 kg -81 kg
Day 5 -70 kg -90 kg
Day 6 -78 kg -100 kg
Day 7 +78 kg +100 kg
Day 8 Mixed Teams

2.2 Weight Categories for IJF WJT Events

The following weight categories will be utilised in the world championships and
competitions held under the auspices of the IJF.

2.2.1 Weight Categories for Individual Competitions

-48 kg Extra-lightweight Up to and including 48.0 kg

-52 kg Half-lightweight Over 48.0 kg up to and including 52.0 kg
-57 kg Lightweight Over 52.0 kg up to and including 57.0 kg
Senior -63 kg Half-middleweight Over 57.0 kg up to and including 63.0 kg
and Junior
Women -70 kg Middleweight Over 63.0 kg up to and including 70.0 kg
-78 kg Half-heavyweight Over 70.0 kg up to and including 78.0 kg
+78 kg Heavyweight Over 78.0 kg
Open Open-weight No weight limit
-40 kg Featherweight Up to and including 40.0 kg
-44 kg Extra-lightweight Over 40.0 kg up to and including 44.0 kg
-48 kg Half-lightweight Over 44.0 kg up to and including 48.0 kg
Cadet
Women -52 kg Lightweight Over 48.0 kg up to and including 52.0 kg
under 18 -57 kg Half-middleweight Over 52.0 kg up to and including 57.0 kg
years
-63 kg Middleweight Over 57.0 kg up to and including 63.0 kg
-70 kg Half-heavyweight Over 63.0 kg up to and including 70.0 kg
+70 kg Heavyweight Over 70.0 kg

page - 22
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

-60 kg Extra-lightweight Up to and including 60.0 kg

-66 kg Half-lightweight Over 60.0 kg up to and including 66.0 kg
-73 kg Lightweight Over 66.0 kg up to and including 73.0 kg

Senior and -81 kg Half-middleweight Over 73.0 kg up to and including 81.0 kg

Junior Men -90 kg Middleweight Over 81.0 kg up to and including 90.0 kg
-100 kg Half-heavyweight Over 90.0 kg up to and including 100.0 kg
+100 kg Heavyweight Over 100.0 kg
Open Open-weight No weight limit
-50 kg Featherweight Up to and including 50.0 kg
-55 kg Extra-lightweight Over 50.0 kg up to and including 55.0 kg
-60 kg Half-lightweight Over 55.0 kg up to and including 60.0 kg
Cadet Men -66 kg Lightweight Over 60.0 kg up to and including 66.0 kg
under 18
years -73 kg Half-middleweight Over 66.0 kg up to and including 73.0 kg
-81 kg Middleweight Over 73.0 kg up to and including 81.0 kg
-90 kg Half-heavyweight Over 81.0 kg up to and including 90.0 kg
+90 kg Heavyweight Over 90.0 kg

2.2.2 Weight Categories for Mixed Team Competitions

-57 kg Women Up to and including 57.0 kg
-73 kg Men Up to and including 73.0 kg
Senior
and Junior -70 kg Women Over 57.0 kg up to and including 70.0 kg
Mixed -90 kg Men Over 73.0 kg up to and including 90.0 kg
Team +70 kg Women Over 70.0 kg
+90 kg Men Over 90.0 kg
-57 kg Women (48 kg, 52 kg, 57 kg*) Up to and including 57.0 kg
Senior -73 kg Men (60 kg, 66 kg, 73 kg*) Up to and including 73.0 kg
Mixed -70 kg Women (57 kg, 63 kg, 70 kg*) Up to and including 70.0 kg
Team
Olympic -90 kg Men (73 kg, 81 kg, 90 kg*) Up to and including 90.0 kg
Games +70 kg Women (70 kg, 78 kg, +78 kg*) Over 70.0 kg
+90 kg Men (90 kg, 100 kg, +100 kg*) Over 90.0 kg
-48 kg Women Up to and including 48.0 kg
-60 kg Men Up to and including 60.0 kg
Cadet -63 kg Women Over 48 kg up to and including 63.0 kg
Mixed
Team -81 kg Men Over 60 kg up to and including 81.0 kg
+63 kg Women Over 63.0 kg
+81 kg Men Over 81.0 kg

*Athletes qualified only in these individual categories can take part in the mixed team
category.
page - 23
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

2.2.3 Weight Categories for Team Competitions

-52 kg Half-lightweight Up to and including 52.0 kg
Senior and -57 kg Lightweight Over 52.0 kg up to and including 57.0 kg
Junior Women -63 kg Half-middleweight Over 57.0 kg up to and including 63.0 kg
Team -70 kg Middleweight Over 63.0 kg up to and including 70.0 kg
+70 kg Half-heavyweight Over 70.0 kg
-48 kg Half-lightweight Up to and including 48.0 kg
-52 kg Lightweight Over 48.0 kg up to and including 52.0 kg
Cadet
-57 kg Half-middleweight Over 52.0 kg up to and including 57.0 kg
Women Team
-63 kg Middleweight Over 57.0 kg up to and including 63.0 kg
+63 kg Half-heavyweight Over 63.0 kg
-66 kg Half-lightweight Up to and including 66.0 kg
Senior and -73 kg Lightweight Over 66.0 kg up to and including 73.0 kg
Junior Men -81 kg Half-middleweight Over 73.0 kg up to and including 81.0 kg
Team -90 kg Middleweight Over 81.0 kg up to and including 90.0 kg
+90 kg Half-heavyweight Over 90.0 kg
-60 kg Half-lightweight Up to and including 60.0 kg
-66 kg Lightweight Over 60.0 kg up to and including 66.0 kg
Cadet -73 kg Half-middleweight Over 66.0 kg up to and including 73.0 kg
Men Team
-81 kg Middleweight Over 73.0 kg up to and including 81.0 kg
+81 kg Half-heavyweight Over 81.0 kg

2.3 Age Groups

Athletes under 15 years of age are not allowed to compete in any official IJF event, or
events organised either under the auspices of the IJF or sanctioned by the IJF. The
lower age limit for all IJF competitions is 15 years (calendar year).

The following age categories are recognised by the IJF:

• Cadet - men and women under 18, age 15, 16 and 17 years (calendar year).
• Junior - men and women under 21, age 15 to 20 years (calendar year).
• Senior - men and women, there is only the lower age limit of 15 years (calendar year).

National federations should use the term youth to define cadets and juniors and any age
groups from 15-20 years that are different to the IJF cadet and junior age.

page - 24
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

2.4 Time Duration of Contests

Regulations related to weight categories, age, contest duration and recommendations
for youths.
Note: no athlete less than 15 years old (calendar year) is allowed to take part in
any IJF official competition. The additional categories (13/14, 11/12, 9/10 years) are
recommendations only.

Female
SENIORS JUNIORS CADETS 13/14 11/12 9/10
>14 YEARS -21 YEARS -18 YEARS YEARS YEARS YEARS
4 minutes 4 minutes 4 minutes 3 minutes 2 minutes No competition
- 22 kg
- 25 kg
- 28 kg
- 32 kg - 32 kg
- 36 kg - 36 kg
- 40 kg - 40 kg - 40 kg
- 44 kg - 44 kg - 44 kg
- 48 kg - 48 kg - 48 kg - 48 kg - 48 kg
- 52 kg - 52 kg - 52 kg - 52 kg
- 57 kg - 57 kg - 57 kg - 57 kg
- 63 kg - 63 kg - 63 kg - 63 kg
- 70 kg - 70 kg - 70 kg
- 78 kg - 78 kg + 70 kg
+ 78 kg + 78 kg

Male
SENIORS JUNIORS CADETS 11/12 9/10
13/14 YEARS
>14 YEARS -21 YEARS -18 YEARS YEARS YEARS
4 minutes 4 minutes 4 minutes 3 minutes 2 minutes No competition
- 24 kg
- 27 kg
- 30 kg
- 34 kg - 34 kg
- 38 kg - 38 kg
- 42 kg - 42 kg
- 46 kg - 46 kg
- 50 kg - 50 kg - 50 kg
- 55 kg - 55 kg
- 60 kg - 60 kg - 60 kg - 60 kg
- 66 kg - 66 kg - 66 kg - 66 kg
- 73 kg - 73 kg - 73 kg
- 81 kg - 81 kg - 81 kg
- 90 kg - 90 kg - 90 kg
-100 kg -100 kg + 90 kg
+ 100 kg + 100 kg

The IJF do not hold competitions for athletes in the 11/12 years and 13/14 years. The
national federations should design their own national concept.

page - 25
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

2.5 Competition Systems

The IJF recognises men’s and women’s competitions. Contests between men and
women are not permitted.
There are many different competition elimination bracket systems (refer to the table
below and Appendix F) that can be used for competitions, direct knockout, quarter-final
(last 8) repechage, double repechage, full repechage, round robin etc. Gold, silver and
two (2) bronze medals will be awarded except in the case of low numbers.

System of System of competition

Events competition for 6 or for 5 or less athletes/
more athletes/teams teams
Seniors
Continental Cups Double repechage
Continental Opens
Continental Championships
Continental Championships Mixed
Teams
Grand Prix
Low numbers systems for
Quarter-final repechage
Grand Slam IJF WJT events
Masters
World Championships Seniors
World Championships Open
World Championships Mixed Teams
World Championships Veterans Double repechage
Olympic Games Individual and Quarter-final repechage Not applicable
Mixed Teams
Non-World Ranking List Events Organiser’s choice Low numbers systems for
IJF WJT or other events
Cadets and Juniors
World Championships
Quarter-final repechage
World Championships Mixed Teams
Continental Cups
Low numbers systems for
Continental Championships IJF WJT events
Double repechage
Continental Championships Mixed
Teams
Youth Olympic Games Full repechage
Non-World Ranking List Events Organiser’s choice Low numbers systems for
IJF WJT or other events

In an individual event if an athlete does not appear for a contest he is considered out of
the competition and cannot return for a later contest (if applicable).

page - 26
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

For all events where world ranking points can be given a uniform system must be used.
On the draw sheet the athlete/team on top wears a white judogi and the one below
wears a blue judogi.

2.5.1 Direct Knockout

This is a direct elimination format without a repechage. The losers of the semi-finals will
both be awarded bronze medals. The winners of the semi-finals will compete for the
gold and silver medals. The four athletes losing the quarter-finals are classified equal
fifth.

2.5.2 Quarter-final Repechage

In a quarter-final repechage, for each category, the athletes will be divided into two
(2) tables by means of a draw, and an elimination system will be used to produce two
(2) finalists, who will compete for the gold medal. The athletes defeated in the quarter-
final will compete in two (2) repechage contests. The winners of each of these two (2)
repechage contests will compete in bronze medal contests against the loser of the
semi-final contest of the respective opposite table. The winners (2) of those contests are
placed third. The losers (2) are placed fifth. The losers (2) of repechage contests are
placed seventh.

2.5.3 Double Repechage

In a double repechage, for each category, the athletes will be divided into two (2) tables
by means of a draw, and an elimination system will be used to produce two (2) finalists,
who will compete for the gold medal. Athletes who lost to the four semi-finalists compete
in the two (2) repechage pools. The winners of each of these two (2) repechage
contests (pools) will compete in bronze medal contests against the loser of the semi-
final contest of the respective opposite table. The winners (2) of those contests are
placed third.

2.5.4 Full Repechage

All participants can compete at least twice, athletes are divided into two (2) tables
(pools), A and B, by means of a draw, and then into two (2) groups (sub-pools) within
each table: A1, A2, B1 and B2. The elimination system will be used to produce two
(2) finalists. All athletes defeated after each round of competition will take part in the
repechage of their respective table according to the elimination system. The winner of
each repechage will compete against the loser of the final of the opposite table for the
two (2) bronze medals. The winners of table A and table B compete for the gold and
silver medals.

With this system there is the possibility that two (2) athletes (or teams) compete together
two (2) times (preliminary and repechage).

page - 27
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

2.5.5 Round Robin

A round robin system may be used, and this is defined as a system where each athlete
or team will compete against the other.

2.5.5.1 Round Robin Rules for Individual Events

The following round robin rules are used to define the classification of each position:
Rule 1. Number of contests won: if the number of contests won are equal, then rule 2
must be followed.

Rule 2. Sum of all points: if there are an equal number of wins, the sum of points for
scores: ippon/waza-ari-awasete-ippon = 10, waza-ari = 1. All scores achieved will be
counted for both the winner and loser for each contest in the category. An athlete can
get a maximum of 10 points per contest. Points are same regardless of if they are
achieved in the regular contest time or during golden score. If the sum of all points are
equal, then rule 3 must be followed.

Rule 3. Direct comparison: if two (2) athletes have an equal number of wins and sum of
all points for scores, the athlete who won the contest between them is defined as better.
If there is still equality rule 4 must be followed.

Rule 4. Direct comparison not possible: if there are an equal number of wins and no
direct comparison possible because of “beating in circle”: the shortest accumulated time
of all winning contests will decide. If there is still equality rule 5 must be followed.

Rule 5. Decision contests: in case of equal time a new draw will be performed between
the involved athletes. A knockout system between the involved athletes will be used,
applying the World Ranking List (WRL) seeding rules. For example, in the case of three
athletes: one (1) contest between two (2) athletes will be held. The winner of this contest
will compete against the third athlete to get a final decision.

2.5.5.2 Round Robin Rules for Team Events

The following round robin rules to define the winners are used:
Rule 1. Number of matches won: if the number of matches won are equal, then rule 2
must be followed.

Rule 2. Number of contests won: if the number of contests won are equal, then rule 3
must be followed.

Rule 3. Golden score contests: three different categories will be drawn for three golden
score contests (match A v B, match A v C and match B v C). Any category where both
athletes are missing must not be included in the draw for that match. Any category
where there is only one athlete must be included in the draw for that match. All contests
must be fought to decide first, second and third place. If the number of contests won are
equal, then rule 4 must be followed.

Rule 4. Equal wins: if there are an equal number of wins, then rule 3 must be repeated
until there is a winning team.

2.5.6 Best of Three

If there are two (2) athletes it will be the best of two (2) contests and if the wins are
equal (1-1), a third contest will decide.

page - 28
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

2.6 Regulations for Low Numbers of Athletes or Teams

If there are one (1) to five (5) athletes or teams the low numbers competition systems
and rules apply.

2.6.1 Low Numbers System for IJF WJT Events

The following competition systems and rules must be used in IJF WJT individual and
mixed team events.

No. of Medals WRL points awarded

Competition system
athletes awarded (if applicable)
Individuals and mixed teams Gold, silver Individuals
The athletes/teams will be and one First, second, one third and
divided as follow: bronze one or two fifth (only if the
athlete won one contest in the
Pool A – 3 athletes/teams will round robin) place.
compete in a round robin system.
5* The winner will go to the final, the Mixed teams
second will compete against the First, second, one third and
loser from pool B in the bronze two fifth places.
medal contest.

Pool B – 2 athletes/teams will

compete for a place in the final
Elimination system with two (2) Gold, silver Individuals
pools of two (2) single contests/ and one First, second and one third
matches, then a contest/match bronze place.
between the two (2) losers of
4* each pool for the single bronze Mixed teams
medal and a contest/match First, second, one third and
between the two (2) winners of one fifth place.
each pool for the gold and silver
medals.
A round robin system will be held Gold, silver Individuals
in the elimination round. The best and one First, second and third (only if
and the second best will compete bronze (for one contest was won) place.
in a final for the gold and silver individuals, if
3*
medal. The third athlete/team will one contest Mixed teams
be awarded the single bronze was won) First, second and third place.
(for individuals, only if one
contest was won).
One final contest/match. Gold Individuals
(individuals) First place.
2*
Gold, silver Mixed teams
(Mixed First and second place.
Teams)
1* No competition. None No

*Participation points given (if applicable).

If only one (1) athlete passes the weigh-in there will be no competition.

page - 29
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

2.6.2 Low Numbers System for Other Events

For other individual and team events, the organiser can choose the competition system
used. Depending on the number of athletes/teams the number of medals awarded must
follow rule 2.6.1.

2.7 Competition System for Mixed Team and Team Events

The system of competition for IJF Mixed Teams events will be the elimination system
with quarter-final repechage (refer to Section 2.5.2 for a full description). Match is used
to define the competition between both teams. Within each match there are a number of
contests (depending on the event).

For other team events, different types of systems can be used such as double
repechage, full repechage, or direct knockout. Gold, silver and two (2) bronze medals
will be awarded except in the case of low numbers.

2.7.1 Regulations for Mixed Team Events

Each team can consist of up to six (6) athletes (3 women and 3 men) and has the
possibility to have up to six (6) reserves (3 women and 3 men).

To enter the mixed team competition the national federation must have a full team. This
means that on the delegation control list during accreditation there must be athletes
able to compete in all six (6) categories. A total of 12 athletes can be inscribed with a
maximum of two (2) athletes per category.

If there are injuries or illness after the draw or during the competition a team can
compete with a minimum of four (4) athletes.

Weigh-in rules can be found in Section 6. Before the start of the official weigh-in the
coach can update the team list.

During seniors and juniors mixed teams’ competitions each athlete is entitled to compete
in their own weight category or in the next higher category. During cadets mixed team
competitions athletes must compete in their inscribed mixed team category and cannot
be moved one (1) team category higher.

During the contests, the non-competing athletes must stay within a marked area on the
field of play. Reserve athletes must not enter the field of play.

Two (2) coaches and one (1) doctor per team will be allowed to enter the field of play.
Athletes should enter the field of play in the order that they will compete in.

A draw will be made for the starting category for the first round. The following rounds will
start with the next category in the sequence.

Example: Seniors Mixed Teams - drawn category is -73 kg

1st round: -73 kg, -70 kg, -90 kg, +70 kg, +90 kg, -57 kg
2nd round: -70 kg, -90 kg, +70 kg, +90 kg, -57 kg, -73 kg
Quarter-final: -90 kg, +70 kg, +90 kg, -57 kg, -73 kg, -70 kg
Repechage and semi-final: +70 kg, +90 kg, -57 kg, -73 kg, -70 kg, -90 kg
Bronze and final: +90 kg, -57 kg, -73 kg, -70 kg, -90 kg, +70 kg

page - 30
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Before each match the team leader must select the athletes for each contest. From the
maximum of two (2) athletes inscribed in each category he can select one.

If the team has the possibility to put an inscribed athlete in a category, he must do so.

An athlete cannot be rested for one match and return for the next unless they have been
replaced by the other inscribed athlete.

If the team has no athlete in a category, they should select the “no competitor” option.

If the wrong athlete goes to the tatami for a contest that is not his own he will be
disqualified, and the opponent he was initially supposed to meet will win by fusen gachi.

For the first round the lists must be returned at least 30 minutes before the start of the
competition. For other rounds it must be returned 5 minutes after receiving the list from
the IJF Sport Commission. Once it is returned to the IJF Sport Commission it cannot be
changed.

Duration of each contest: women four (4) minutes and men four (4) minutes (real time).

After the team bow the byes are displayed on the scoreboard and wins are given.

Example: If one team has one (1) category empty: 1:0

Example: if both teams have a different category empty: 1:1
Example: if both teams have the same category empty: 0:0 (this is the only case when
we stop a match when a team has reached 3 wins).

These byes are skipped later, no athlete needs to return to the tatami to bow again if
there is no contest to be fought.

The first team to win the majority of contests is declared the winner. In IJF events the
remaining contests will not be fought. In other events the organiser can decide if the
remaining contests will take place or not.

It is compulsory that all athletes listed for the match compete until one (1) team reaches
the winning result. If an athlete refuses to compete the team will be disqualified.

If one (1) team does not arrive for a match, the other team will be declared the
winner. They are considered out of competition and cannot return for a later match (if
applicable).

If there are an equal number of wins at the end of the match, there is a draw for the
weight category that will compete in a golden score contest (see table below) to decide
the winning team. The draw is done by computer and displayed on the athlete and
public (big screen) scoreboards.

page - 31
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Draw for Golden Score Contest

Action
Scenario

1
Both teams have “no competitor” in Category is removed from the draw
the same category
One team has “no competitor” or Category remains in the draw and the
after the regular contest an athlete is win is given directly to the other team
2 unable to continue (injured, ill, direct
hansoku-make cannot continue in
competition etc.)
In the regular contest both athletes Category remains in the draw
3
given an indirect hansoku-make (3
shido) or a direct hansoku-make (can
continue in competition)
In the regular contest both athletes Category is removed from the draw
4 given a direct hansoku-make (cannot
continue in competition)

If there is a double hansoku-make during the golden score contest the following rules
will be respected:

Scenario Action
Both athletes given an indirect Category is included in a new draw
1 hansoku-make (3 shido) in the golden for another golden score contest
score contest
Both athletes given a direct hansoku- Category is included in a new draw
2 make (can continue in competition) for another golden score contest
in the in the golden score contest
Both athletes given a direct Category is removed and there is a
3
hansoku-make (cannot continue new draw for another golden score
in competition) in the golden score contest
contest

The IJF Ad Hoc Commission will decide the consequences in any situation that may
result in a whole team being disqualified.

If a National Olympic Committee (NOC) qualifies for the Olympic Games mixed team
event, all athletes who qualified for the individual competition can take part in the mixed
team competition, up to a maximum of seven (7) women and seven (7) men.

2.7.2 Regulations for Female and Male Team Events

Each team will consist of up to five (5) athletes and has the possibility to have up to five
(5) reserves. A team must consist of a minimum of three (3) athletes.

A total of 10 athletes can be inscribed with a maximum of two (2) athletes per category.

Weigh-in rules can be found in Section 6. Before the start of the official weigh-in the
coach can update the team list.

page - 32
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

During female and male team events each athlete is entitled to compete in their own
weight category or in the next higher category.

During the contests, the non-competing athletes must stay within a marked area on the
field of play. Reserve athletes must not enter the field of play.

One (1) coach and one (1) doctor per team will be allowed to enter the field of play.
Athletes should enter the field of play in the order that they will compete in.

The contests in female and male team matches will be fought from the lightest weight to
the highest weight.

Before each match the team leader must select the athletes for each contest. From the
maximum of two (2) athletes inscribed in each category they can select one (1). If the
team has the possibility to put an inscribed athlete in a category, they must do so. An
athlete cannot be rested for one (1) match and return for the next unless they have been
replaced by the other inscribed athlete.

If the team has no athlete in a category, they should select the “no competitor” option.

If the wrong athlete goes to the tatami for a contest that is not his own he will be
disqualified, and the opponent he was initially supposed to meet will win by fusen gachi.

For the first round the lists must be returned at least 30 minutes before the start of the
competition. For other rounds it must be returned 5 minutes after receiving the list from
the IJF Sport Commission. Once it is returned to the IJF Sport Commission it cannot be
changed.

Duration of each contest: women four (4) minutes and men four (4) minutes (real time).

After the team bow the byes are displayed on the scoreboard and wins are given.

Example: If one team has one (1) category empty: 1:0

Example: if both teams have a different category empty: 1:1
Example: if both teams have the same category empty: 0:0 (this is the only case when
we stop a match when a team has reached 3 wins).

These byes are skipped later, no athlete needs to return to the tatami to bow again if
there is no contest to be fought.

The first team to win the majority of contests is declared the winner. The organiser can
decide if the remaining contests will take place or not.

It is compulsory that all athletes listed for the match compete until the team reaches the
winning result. If an athlete refuses to compete the team will be disqualified.

If one (1) team does not arrive for a match, the other team will be declared the
winner. They are considered out of competition and cannot return for a later match (if
applicable).

If there are an equal number of wins at the end of the match see Section 2.7.1 for the
necessary action.

page - 33
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

2.8 Event Outlines

For each IJF WJT event outlines will be published on the IJF website and sent to the
national federations. The deadlines in the outlines must be respected.

2.8.1 Visas
The LOC will assist with visas where possible but having the correct visa is the
responsibility of each participant. Visa applications will only be accepted for people who
are inscribed in Judobase for the event.

The invitation letters issued by the LOC must only be used for visa application for the
concerned event.

It is the responsibility of the national federation to ensure that their delegation respects
the conditions of stay defined by the Government of the country hosting the event. If
any participant does not respect these conditions, any costs arising will be borne by the
national federation concerned.

2.8.2 Transportation
The LOC will provide transportation for competing delegations during the competition.
This transportation service (including airport transfers) is only offered on the days when
the delegations are booked in an official hotel through the LOC. On days delegations
are using an unofficial hotel or an official hotel, not reserved through the LOC, they are
not allowed to use the official event transportation.

Travel information must be uploaded to my.ijf.org according to the hotel reservation

arrival and departure dates. If the delegation misses the transport deadline and travel
information is not uploaded airport, train or bus station transfers are NOT guaranteed
and a fee may be charged by the LOC.

2.8.3 Accommodation
All delegations, who inscribe for an IJF WJT event, must reserve their accommodation
in one (1) of the official hotels published in the event outlines. The reservation must be
made with the LOC (not directly with the hotel).

The minimum reservation for a delegation is two (2) nights multiplied by the total
number of people inscribed in Judobase. The national federation President and referee
nominated by the IJF are not included in this calculation.

Examples:
• 4 people inscribed in Judobase (no referee) = 4 x 2 nights = 8 nights or more must
be reserved.
• 17 people inscribed in Judobase (including 1 referee) = (17-1) x 2 = 32 nights or
more must be reserved.

This rule does not apply to the host national federation delegates.

The LOC will do their best to provide the first choice of accommodation but as rooms
might be limited this cannot be guaranteed.

After the accommodation deadline, the LOC cannot promise rooms in the hotels detailed
in the outlines and another official hotel may be added. Accommodation cancellation
fees will be detailed in the event outlines.

page - 34
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The hotel prices are not guaranteed after the reservation deadline and delegations
requesting accommodation late may be subject to a price increase.

Any damage to hotel property resulting from the stay of a national delegation will be
charged to the national federation and must be paid in full.

Delegations are kindly requested not to dry clothing (including judogi) or have training
sessions in the corridors of the official hotels.

According to the IJF rule enacted on the 2 December 2012 in Tokyo, “the organising
country should not request penalties fee for participating countries who cannot make
bank transfers but can pay in cash upon arrival. Those countries who cannot make bank
transfers should inform the LOC well in advance that they will pay cash on arrival”.

All bank fees and bank transfer costs must be paid by the participating national
federation. If payment is being made by bank transfer the bank information must be
inserted correctly and completely on the transfer document and any procedures related
to amendment of the bank transfer must be done before arrival.

Delegations must ensure that all bank charges are paid at their end so that the LOC
receive the correct amount of funds without any deductions. The person attending
accreditation must bring proof of the bank transfer.

2.8.4 Training
The LOC are responsible to provide training facilities (from 2 days before the
competition until the end of the final weigh-in) that will be approved by the IJF Sport
Commission. Planning and scheduling of training sessions will be organised taking into
consideration requests made by delegations daily on a first request made first served
basis. To book training contact the LOC. Ice and water (in sealed bottles, cans or
containers up to 500 ml), with a low sodium and/or chloride content (below 200 mg/l)
must be provided for delegations at all training venues for all training days. This rule
applies to warm-up areas, all training areas, medical rooms and doping control rooms.

2.8.5 Consent for use of data/photography/videos/filming

Delegates inscribed by their national federations for WJT events consent to the IJF and
its media partners to use content of them, including data, live results, photographs and/
or video recordings (hereafter referred to as Media). This media may be obtained from
national federations and IJF. It will also be acquired by the IJF and its media partners
from in and around all IJF WJT event venues.

Media could be used in print and digital media formats including print publications,
websites, e-marketing, posters banners, advertising, film, broadcast, social media,
education purposes and other purposes.

The national federation must ensure that they have the permission of each delegate or in
the case of a minor the permission of the parent/guardian.

If a delegate does not give consent, then the national federation must inform the
International Judo Federation by writing to [email protected]

page - 35
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

2.9 Official Notice Boards

All event information (transport times, training schedule, departure schedule etc.) for
the delegations will be communicated and posted on the official notice boards in each
official hotel and in the warm-up area. The information can also be found online in the
IJF notice board Telegram group.

page - 36
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

page - 37
IJF WORLD
RANKING LISTS
The world ranking lists (WRL) are the responsibility of
the IJF Sport Commission and are managed by the IJF
IT Team. The WRL can be found at www.ijf.org and for
assistance please contact the relevant ranking email
([email protected], [email protected] or
[email protected]).
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

3.1 IJF World Ranking Lists

The International Judo Federation (IJF) produces World Ranking Lists (WRL) for
individuals and mixed teams. These WRL lists are used for seeding athletes/teams in
the draw for ranking events. There is also an IJF Nation WRL which shows the total
ranking points from each WRL per nation.

The number of points earned depends on the type of event and how far an athlete/team
progresses in the competition. In the individual competition, the points are allocated to
the athlete in the weight category in which they participate and cannot be transferred to
another weight category. In the mixed team competition, the points are allocated to the
respective nation.

The lists are updated following the ranking events where athletes/teams earn points to
be ranked on an IJF WRL.

Annually points either reduce or expire. The dividing line for reduction or expiration is the
following week in which the competition was held, the beginning of the week is defined
as Monday (week numbering is following the international standard ISO 8601).

Example: If the competition is held in week 10 of the year (YYYY), the points are
reduced to half at the beginning of week 11 in the next year (YYYY+1) and expired at
the beginning of week 11 in the year after (YYYY+2).

There are exceptions for Continental Championships Seniors and Mixed Teams, for the
equal treatment of all continents, points will be handled as follows, regardless of the
week that the competition takes place.

The Continental Championships Seniors Individual and Mixed Teams 2022 will be
treated as if they were held in week number 17 regardless of the week number that they
are organised in (points are added when competition is held). The points reduction will
be done on Monday of week 18, 2023 (50%) and week 18, 2024 (0%).

The Continental Championships Seniors Individual and Mixed Teams 2023 will be
treated as if they were held in week 30 regardless of the week number that they are
organised in (points are added when competition is held). The points reduction will be
done on Monday of week 31, 2024 (after the Olympic Games) (50%) and week 31, 2025
(0%). Please note that these will move to period 50% on week 18 2024, keeping their
100% value.

The Continental Championships Seniors Individual and Mixed Teams 2024 will be
treated as if they were held in week number 17 regardless of the week number that they
are organised in (points are added when competition is held). The points reduction will
be done on Monday of week 18, 2025 (50%) and week 18, 2026 (0%).

In 2025, the Continental Championships Seniors and Mixed Teams 2023 and 2024 will
be treated as if they were held in week 17 regardless of the week number that they are
organised in. The period change will be done on Monday of week 18, 2025.

page - 39
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

There are exceptions for Continental Championships Juniors and Mixed Teams and
Cadets and Mixed Teams.
For the equal treatment of all continents, points will be handled as follows, regardless of
the week that the competition takes place (points are added when competition is held).

Points allocation as if
Points reduction/expiration
Competition competition was held in
on Monday of week number:
week number:
Continental Championships
Juniors and Mixed Teams
26 27
Continental Championships
Cadets and Mixed Teams
26 27

These WRL lists are used for seeding athletes/teams in the draw for ranking events.

page - 40
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

3.2 IJF World Ranking Lists for Individuals

There are three IJF WRL for individuals; IJF Seniors WRL, IJF Juniors WRL and IJF
Cadets WRL.
3.2.1 IJF Seniors World Ranking List
Athletes can earn points for the IJF Seniors WRL by competing in IJF World Judo Tour
(WJT) events for senior, World Championships Juniors, Continental Championships and
Continental Opens for seniors.

Continental Continental Junior World Grand World Olympic

Grand Prix Masters
Opens Championships Championships Slam Championships Games

1st place 100 700 700 700 1000 1800 2000 2200
2nd place 70 490 490 490 700 1260 1400 1540
3rd place 50 350 350 350 500 900 1000 1100
5th place 36 252 252 252 360 648 720 792
7th place 26 182 182 182 260 468 520 572
9th place (1/16) 16 112 112 112 160 288 320 352
17th place (1/32) 12 84 84 84 120 240 264
1 contest won 10 70 70 70 100 200
Participation 0 6 6 6 10 200 20

Participation points will be given for Grand Prix, Grand Slam, Masters, Continental
Championships and World Championships. In a Continental Open a minimum of one (1)
contest must be won to get points.

The points for each competition will count as follows:

100% Period Look back 12 months • 5+1 best results 100%

50% Period Look back 13-24 months • 5+1 best results 50%
After 24 months • Points expire 0%
In each period the five (5) best results from Grand Slam, Grand Prix and Continental
Opens plus one (1) result from the continental championships or Masters count. In
a case where the athlete competes in both events (Continental Championships and
Masters) then the higher point score will count as the 6th result, and the lower point
score may count as one (1) of the five (5) best results.

Exception for the 6th result:

Olympic qualification period 6th result rule

50% Period Higher points from Masters 2022 (50%) or
(24 June 2022 to 22 June 2023) continental championships 2023 (100%)
100% Period Higher points from Masters 2023 (100%) or
(23 June 2023 to 23 June 2024) continental championships 2024 (100%)

The lower points are going to be counted in the best five of the period, if applicable.

page - 41
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

At Grand Prix and Grand Slam events only the two (2) best domestic athletes per
category can obtain points for the IJF Seniors WRL. In case of equality the points will
be automatically given to the highest ranked athlete. If still equal, the domestic national
federation will decide.

If two or more athletes have an equal number of total WRL points, the higher ranking will
be decided by:
• The highest sum of the current points from all World Championships.
• The highest sum of the current points from all Grand Prix, Grand Slams and Masters.
• The highest current points from a single event, then, if needed, the second highest,
and so on.

In the case of Olympic Qualification, if the athletes are still equal the IJF Executive
Committee will make the decision.

Athletes participating in the World Championships Juniors, will be added to the IJF
Seniors WRL, and will be given the same points as those given for a Grand Prix.

3.2.2 IJF Juniors World Ranking List

Athletes can earn points for the IJF Juniors WRL by competing in Continental Cups
Juniors, Continental Championships Juniors and World Championships Juniors.

Continental World
Continental Cups
Championships Championships
1st place 100 200 500
2nd place 60 120 300
3rd place 40 80 200
5th place 20 40 100
7th place 16 32 80
Each contest won 2 6 12
Participation 0 2 4
Participation points will be given for Continental Championships Juniors and World
Championships Juniors. In a Continental Cup Juniors, a minimum of one (1) contest
must be won to get points.

The points for each competition will count as follows:

Look back 12 •• Three best results from Continental Cup

100% period Result from last Continental Championships 100%
months • Result from last World Championships
• Three best results from Continental Cup
Look back
13-24 months •• Result
50% period from previous Continental Championships 50%
Result from last World Championships
After 24 • Points expire 0%
months

page - 42
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

At World Championships Juniors only the nine (9) best domestic male and nine (9) best
domestic female athletes from the host country will be considered for the IJF Juniors
WRL and IJF Seniors WRL. In case of equality the points will be automatically given to
the highest ranked athlete. If still equal, the domestic federation will decide.

If two or more athletes have an equal number of total WRL points, the higher ranking will
be decided by:
• The highest sum of the current points from all World Championships Juniors.
• The highest sum of the current points from all Continental Championships Juniors.
• The highest sum of the current points from all Continental Cups Juniors.
• The highest current points from a single event, then, if needed, the second highest,
and so on.

3.2.3 IJF Cadets World Ranking List

Athletes can earn points for the IJF Cadets WRL by competing in Continental Cups
Cadets, Continental Championships Cadets and World Championships Cadets.

Continental Continental World

Cups Championships Championships
1st place 100 200 500
2nd place 60 120 300
3rd place 40 80 200
5th place 20 40 100
7th place 16 32 80
Each contest won 2 6 12
Participation 0 2 4
Participation points will be given for Continental Championships Cadets and World
Championships Cadets. In a Continental Cup Cadets, a minimum of one (1) contest
must be won to get points.

The points for each competition will count as follows:

Look back 12 •• Three best results from Continental Cup

100% period Result from last Continental Championships 100%
months • Result from last World Championships
• Three best results from Continental Cup
Look back
13-24 months •• Result
50% period from previous Continental Championships 50%
Result from last World Championships
After 24 • Points expire 0%
months

At World Championships Cadets only the ten (10) best domestic male and ten (10) best
domestic female athletes will be considered for the IJF Cadets WRL. In case of equality
the points will be automatically given to the highest ranked athlete. If still equal, the
domestic federation will decide.

page - 43
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

If two or more athletes have an equal number of total WRL points, the higher ranking will
be decided by:
• The highest sum of the current points from all World Championships Cadets.
• The highest sum of the current points from all Continental Championships Cadets.
• The highest sum of the current points from all Continental Cups Cadets.
• The highest current points from a single event, then, if needed, the second highest,
and so on.

Note: For the Youth Olympic Games only the last three criteria above are relevant as
there are no World Championships during the qualification period.

If the athletes are still equal the IJF Executive Committee, in the case of Youth Olympic
qualification, will make the final decision.

3.3 IJF World Ranking Lists for Mixed Teams

There are three (3) IJF WRL for mixed teams; IJF Seniors Mixed Teams WRL, IJF
Juniors Mixed Teams WRL and IJF Cadets Mixed Teams WRL.

3.3.1 IJF Seniors Mixed Teams World Ranking List

Teams can earn points for the IJF WRL Seniors Mixed Teams by competing in
Continental Championships Seniors Mixed Teams and World Championships Seniors
Mixed Teams.

Continental World Championship Olympic Games

Placing
Championship points points points
1st place 4200 12000 13200
2nd place 2940 8400 9240
3rd place 2100 6000 6600
5th place 1512 4320 4752
7th place 1092 3120 3432
9th place (1/16) 672 1920 2112
17th place (1/32) 504 1440 1584
Points will be allocated even if no match was won.

The points for each competition will count as follows:

100% period Look back 12 months • Championships points 100%

50% period Look back 13-24 months • Championships points 50%
After 24 months • Points expire 0%
Additional rules in the case of equality of total points, the higher ranking will be decided
by:
• The highest sum of the current points from all World Championships Seniors Mixed
Teams.
• The highest sum of the current points from all Continental Championships Seniors
Mixed Teams.

Note: for decreasing exceptions, please see 3.1 IJF World Ranking Lists.

page - 44
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

3.3.2 IJF Juniors Mixed Teams World Ranking List

Teams can earn points for the IJF Juniors Mixed Teams WRL by competing in the
Continental Championships Juniors and World Championships Juniors Mixed Teams.

Continental Championship
Placing World Championship points
points
1st place 700 2000
2nd place 490 1400
3rd place 350 1000
5th place 252 720
7th place 182 520
9th place (1/16) 112 320
17th place (1/32) 84 240
Points will be allocated even if no match was won.

The points for each competition will count as follows:

100% period Look back 12 months • Championships points 100%

50% period Look back 13-24 months • Championships points 50%
After 24 months • Points expire 0%
Additional rules in the case of equality of total points, the higher ranking will be decided
by:
• The highest sum of the current points from all World Championships Juniors Mixed
Teams.
• The highest sum of the current points from all Continental Championships Juniors
Mixed Teams.

page - 45
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

3.3.3 IJF Cadets Mixed Teams World Ranking List

Teams can earn points for the IJF Cadets Mixed Teams WRL by competing in the
Continental Championships Cadets Mixed Teams and World Championships Cadets
Mixed Teams.

Continental Championship
Placing World Championship points
points
1st place 700 2000
2nd place 490 1400
3rd place 350 1000
5th place 252 720
7th place 182 520
9th place (1/16) 112 320
17th place (1/32) 84 240
Points will be allocated even if no match was won.

The points for each competition will count as follows:

100% period Look back 12 months • Championships points 100%
50% period Look back 13-24 months • Championships points 50%
After 24 months • Points expire 0%
Additional rules in the case of equality of total points, the higher ranking will be decided
by:
• The highest sum of the current points from all World Championships Cadets Mixed
Teams.
• The highest sum of the current points from all Continental Championships Cadets
Mixed Teams.

3.4 IJF Nations World Ranking List

The IJF Nations WRL consists of the sum of the current WRL points (seniors, juniors
and cadets) plus the sum of the current Mixed Team (seniors, juniors and cadets) WRL
for that nation.

page - 46
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

3.5 Additional Rules

An athlete is in the competition only once he passes the official weigh-in.

If an athlete passes the official weigh-in and is alone in the category he will get the
participation ranking points, if applicable.

Any athlete who does not come to the tatami for a contest will have a line put through
his name on the draw sheet. His opponent must come to the tatami and bow. He will be
declared the winner by fusen-gachi and WRL points will be given.

When an athlete loses a contest by a direct hansoku-make for acts against the spirit
of judo, ranking points will be assigned for the position that the athlete reached in the
competition. However, points, medals and prize money may be removed depending on
the results of any further disciplinary action.

If an athlete on the IJF World Ranking List changes their nationality they will keep all
the previously acquired points in all the categories where they competed before. If they
decide to participate in a new different category, or if there is an age class change, they
will start from zero.

If an athlete on any IJF WRL changes their gender, they will lose all WRL points.

An athlete classified in any IJF WRL (either cadets, juniors or seniors) is not authorised
to take part in an international competition of any combat sport, other than judo, unless
authorisation has been given by the IJF. An international competition is defined as a
competition where two (2) or more different nations take part. The national federation is
responsible for controlling and sending the information on any cases to the IJF General
Secretariat ([email protected]). Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action for the
national federation.

The automatic sanction system for athletes who did not ask the IJF for authorisation or
did not respect the IJF decision is applicable as follows:
• 1st violation: 2 months suspension from IJF and Continental Unions competitions and
other judo activities e.g., training camp.
• 2nd violation: 2 years suspension from IJF and Continental Unions competitions and
other judo activities e.g., training camp.
• Further violations will be referred to the IJF Disciplinary Committee.

page - 47
ENTRIES AND
ACCREDITATION
Entries for IJF events are the responsibility of the
IJF Sport Commission and are managed by the
IJF IT Team. For assistance on the entries please
contact [email protected]
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

4.1 Participation Rules for IJF WJT Events

Any delegate is eligible to participate in a competition provided he fulfils the following
requirements:
• Not under a disciplinary suspension.
• Not under suspension for anti-doping rule violation.
• Not carrying any communicable diseases that may risk other delegates’ health.

In addition to the above, coaches must have:

• From 1 September 2024 to coach in Grand Prix, Grand Slam, Masters, World
Championships Seniors Individual and Mixed Teams and Olympic Games a
coach must have either the International Judo Federation (IJF) Academy Level 1
Instructor, the Undergraduate certificate Judo Instructor (UCJI), or the Master Coach
certification.
• From 1 January 2026 to coach in World Championships Cadets Individual and Mixed
Teams and World Championships Juniors Individual and Mixed Teams, a coach must
have either the IJF Academy Level 1 Instructor, the Undergraduate certificate Judo
Instructor (UCJI), or the Master Coach certification.

Coaches at the World Championships Veterans are exempt from this certification rule.

In addition, athletes must:

• Meet the IJF Athlete Eligibility Regulations (found in the IJF Governance Policies:
www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3)
• Not be under medical suspension.
• Be healthy and fit for competition.
• Is the correct age for the competition that the athlete wants to enter. Any national
federation entering athletes that are not of the correct age will be subject to an
investigation and possible disciplinary action.
• Have sufficient technical knowledge (know the terminology and can execute all the
techniques in Appendix G) and understand fully the IJF sport and refereeing rules.
For all participants in World Championships juniors and cadets minimum technical
requirements will be requested under the supervision of the IJF Judo Academy.

4.2 Entries for IJF WJT Events

Only entries from member national judo federations will be accepted.

In some exceptional cases, the IJF can, to protect an athlete’s career, inscribe an
athlete into an IJF event, under his national federation Flag or under the IJF flag,
according to the specificity of the case.

The name and date of birth of each delegate should match that of their passport. If
the person wishes to be known by another name, they should write to the IJF General
Secretariat ([email protected]) with copy to [email protected] for approval. If someone has
a name change or their name/date of birth is incorrect, the national federation should
send a copy of the valid passport to [email protected] so that their Judobase record
can be updated.

All participating delegates must have a Judobase profile and a valid IJF card and be
inscribed in the event in Judobase by their national federation by the event deadline.

page - 49
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

There are two types of IJF cards:

• IJF international cards (renewable every two years) can be used for all functions
(athlete, coach, team official, doctor etc.) at IJF World Judo Tour events including
world championships kata and veterans.
• IJF veterans/kata card (valid for life) can be used for all functions (athlete, coach,
team official, doctor etc.) at the world championships kata and veterans. It cannot be
used at other IJF World Judo Tour events.

The President of a national federation cannot act as a coach or referee during events
organised by the IJF.

A national federation coach can be accredited for ONLY one country per event except
when prior permission has been given by the IJF after confirmation that all national
federations involved agree. Requests from each of the national federation involved must
be sent to the IJF General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]). The coach must then be
inscribed in the event for each country and an explanation sent to the LOC informing
them that IJF permission has been given in order for them not to charge twice for the
accommodation etc. and also inform them who is paying for the accommodation.

Athletes can be entered in ONLY one weight category per IJF World Ranking List (WRL)
event. Each person can only be inscribed with one function (i.e., athlete, coach, referee,
team official etc.) per event. This rule is not the same for veteran events (Appendix A).

After the deadline changes can be made one to one, like for like, due to injury or illness.
For example, an injured athlete can be replaced by another athlete regardless of gender
or weight category. An ill team official can be replaced by another team official etc.

The process is as follows:

• Until seven (7) days before draw, the correct names of the complete delegation
(athletes and officials) must be registered online on the IJF registration page
(https://admin.judobase.org). During the period of Olympic qualification, for events
where Olympic qualification points can be earned, no additional athletes (under any
circumstances) can be inscribed after this deadline.
• Until 5 days before the start of accreditation if a delegation has replacements and/or
cancellations these changes must be entered online at https://admin.judobase.org.
• Until start of accreditation, any last-minute replacements or cancellations must
be sent to the IJF registration e-mail: [email protected]. A confirmation will be
sent from the IJF. Emails to [email protected] only cancel the delegate for the
competition, for accommodation cancellations you must email the LOC directly.

During accreditation, registered athletes can be replaced by other athletes and

registered officials can be replaced by other officials.

4.3 Cancellation of Athletes

Whenever possible, cancellations should be made before accreditation. Any cancellation
of an athlete during accreditation without replacement will result in the following penalty:
If registered athletes are cancelled during accreditation without previous notification to
IJF, a penalty of 100 USD per athlete will apply.
This penalty will be charged by the IJF to the national federation.

The LOC has the right to charge cancellation fees as detailed in the event outlines.

page - 50
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

4.4 Number of Entries

For IJF events the number of entries allowed for each national federation will be as
follows:
World Championships Seniors
Only athletes ranked number 1-100* in the IJF Seniors WRL, and athletes ranked
number 1-16* in the IJF Juniors WRL, can take part with each national federation
allowed to enter:
• Up to 9 entries for women with maximum 2 athletes per category.
• Up to 9 entries for men with maximum 2 athletes per category.

The host country may enter:

• Up to 9 entries for women with maximum 2 athletes per category, regardless of WRL
position.
• Up to 9 entries for men with maximum 2 athletes per category, regardless of WRL
position.

The IJF Head Sport Director will choose a date when the IJF Seniors WRL will be used
for qualification and seeding for the World Championships Seniors.

There is no open category.

*Equally ranked athletes can all participate.

World Championships Open

• Up to 4 entries for women.
• Up to 4 entries for men.

World Championships Juniors

• Up to 9 entries for women with maximum 2 athletes per category.
• Up to 9 entries for men with maximum 2 athletes per category.

The host country may enter:

• Up to 14 entries for women with maximum 2 athletes per category.
• Up to 14 entries for men with maximum 2 athletes per category.

Organisers of World Championships Juniors (especially cities and regions) could have
additional Wild Cards for their local and regional athletes, not affecting quotas of the
Federation. The number of athletes proposed by the LOC will be agreed by the IJF
Head Sport Director.

However, from the host country only the best results from 9 men and 9 women will be
considered for the IJF Juniors WRL and IJF Seniors WRL.

There is no open category.

page - 51
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

World Championships Cadets

Each national federation may enter:
• Up to 10 entries for women with maximum 2 athletes per category.
• Up to 10 entries for men with maximum 2 athletes per category.

The host country may enter:

• Up to 16 entries for women with maximum 2 athletes per category.
• Up to 16 entries for men with maximum 2 athletes per category.

Organisers of World Championships Cadets (especially cities and regions) could have
additional Wild Cards for their local and regional athletes, not affecting quotas of the
Federation. The number of athletes proposed by the local organising committee will be
agreed by the IJF Head Sport Director.

However, from the host country only the best results from 10 men and 10 women will be
considered for the IJF Cadets WRL.

There is no open category.

World Championships Mixed Teams

• 2 athletes per category.

World Championships Kata

Seniors category
• A maximum of 10 pairs and a maximum of 3 pairs in a kata.

U23 category
• A maximum of three (3) pairs in a kata.

World Championships Veterans

There is no limit to the number of athletes from the same country that can be inscribed
in a category.

World Masters
• The top 36 athletes in the IJF Seniors WRL in each weight category will be invited. No
reserve athletes will be invited.

If an athlete qualifies in more than one category, the national federation can decide in
which category they will take part. The national federation will be given a deadline for
this decision.

If they do not decide on time, the IJF will take the decision based on the highest-ranking
position and that will be the category that is chosen. No replacement athlete will be
invited in the category that is not chosen.

Athletes can only be entered in the weight category for which they have been selected.

The organising country has the right to have a minimum of two (2) athletes in each
category. If they do not qualify anyone in the top 36 up to two (2) domestic athletes can
participate as the 37th and 38th athlete.

page - 52
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

If, in a category, there are athletes known to be suspended for disciplinary reason(s)
and/or under voluntary/obligatory/optional provisional suspension for doping reason(s)
and/or serving ineligibility for anti-doping rule violation(s) they will NOT participate and
the next athlete(s) in the list from position number 37 and below will be invited.

Grand Prix and Grand Slam

• Up to 14 entries for women with maximum 2 athletes per category.
• Up to 14 entries for men with maximum 2 athletes per category.

The host country may enter:

• Up to 28 entries for women with maximum 4 athletes per category.
• Up to 28 entries for men with maximum 4 athletes per category.

However, from the host country only the best two (2) results from each category will be
considered for the IJF Seniors WRL.

Continental Championships Seniors

Up to 9 entries for women with maximum 2 athletes per category.
• Up to 9 entries for men with maximum 2 athletes per category.

Continental Championships Juniors

• Up to 9 entries for women with maximum 2 athletes per category.
• Up to 9 entries for men with maximum 2 athletes per category.

Continental Championships Cadets

• Up to 10 entries for women with maximum 2 athletes per category.
• Up to 10 entries for men with maximum 2 athletes per category.

Continental Opens and Cups

There is no limit to the number of athletes from the same country that can be inscribed
in a category.

Registration Under the IJF Flag

There is no limit to the number of athletes participating under the IJF flag, this includes
IJF Refugee Team athletes competing with the three-letter code IRT.

4.5 Accreditation
The purpose of accreditation is to identify people and their roles at events and allow
them necessary access to perform their roles.

At least one team delegate must attend on time to confirm the entries of all athletes
and officials with a signature on the delegation confirmation list. A delayed appearance
or no-show may result in the exclusion of all participants from the draw and the event.
In case of unforeseen delay of arrival or cancellation, the national federation must
immediately contact both the LOC and the IJF registration team ([email protected]).

For each official team member from a national delegation (athletes, coach, team official,
doctor etc.) an accreditation card is issued by the IJF during accreditation.
A delegate should never wear another delegate’s accreditation card. The accreditation
card remains the property of the IJF and can be withdrawn, with immediate effect, at the
IJF’s sole discretion.

page - 53
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The accreditation card is valid for the duration of the competition and is the personal
identity document of the delegate for all security and access controls. This card contains:
last (family) name, first (given) name, country, IJF ID number, a picture and for athletes
their weight category and WRL position.

At World Championships and whenever it is necessary to verify the face, age and/or
nationality of an athlete, a member of the IJF Sport Commission or its representative will
check photographic proof of identity.

Accepted documents are a valid passport or a valid national identity card showing the
same nationality as the country of issue. The document presented must be the same
nationality that the athlete is representing in the competition. A high-quality photocopy or
scan will also be accepted, if, for a valid reason these documents are not available.

A travel document which can resemble a passport will not be accepted.

Athletes who have permission to take part in IJF events under the IJF SOR rule 1.7.2
who do not have a valid passport issued by the represented country must present either
a photographic identity or refugee travel document and the IJF authorisation letter.

Quota for officials for accreditations (includes team officials, coaches, doctors, and
physiotherapists):
• One – four (1-4) athletes = three (3) officials.
• Five – nine (5-9) athletes = five (5) officials.
• 10 or more athletes = seven (7) officials.

The accreditations for national federation president, referee and judoka are not included
in the above calculation. The fee for additional team official(s) (who must be inscribed in
Judobase) is 100 US$ per accreditation, to be paid to the LOC.

Replacement of lost or forgotten accreditation will be charged at 50 US$ to be paid to

the IJF.

At the accreditation stage the LOC must organise at least two (2) stations for financial
payments. One for teams with no changes and one or more for teams that need to make
changes.

page - 54
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

page - 55
DRAW
The draw is the responsibility of the
IJF Sport Commission.
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

5.1 Draw Regulations

For all International Judo Federation (IJF) World Championships, Masters, Grand Slams
and Grand Prix the draw will take place at 14:00 the day before the competition. For
other events, such as the Olympic Games and other multi-sport events, the date and
time of the draw will be agreed by the IJF Sport Commission.

After the closing of accreditation and before the start of the draw the lists of athletes by
category will be posted either on paper outside the draw room and/or electronically in
the IJF notice board (Telegram, WhatsApp, Messenger etc.). Any errors or omissions
should be reported to the IJF IT Team before the start of the draw.

The draw may be held online or with attendees.

With attendees a maximum of two (2) delegates per national federation may attend the
draw.

Dress code: formal suit (jacket, trousers, shirt, and tie for men; jacket, trousers/skirt/
dress, blouse for women) and formal shoes.

The draw will be carried out by computer with the use of the IJF software (or other
software if IJF authorised) under the direction of the IJF Sport Director assisted by the
IJF IT Team and IJF Sport Commission.

The organising committee shall distribute copies of the draw on demand.

5.2 Seeding for IJF WJT Events

For the World Championships, Masters, Grand Slams, Grand Prix, Continental Opens
and Cadets and Juniors Continental Cups up to a maximum of the top eight (8) athletes
among the entered athletes in each weight category will be seeded based on their IJF
World Ranking List (WRL) position.

For the rest of the draw separation by nations will be respected. In a category, seeding
position has the priority over nationality division of the athletes. This means that athletes
of the same country may end up in the same pool because of their seeding position
or because there is no other possible position for them due to the ranking of the other
athletes.

For the World Championships Open there will be no seeding only separation by nations.

For the World Mixed Team Championships, the top four (4) teams, from the IJF Mixed
Teams WRL will be seeded.
In theory, seeding should separate the strongest athletes in each category, so that they
meet at as late a stage as possible in the chosen method of elimination.

For example, the best two (2) athletes should not meet until the final and the top four
until the semi-final and the top eight (8) until the quarter-finals.

Where athletes/teams have the same ranking position, the draw system will
automatically do a pre-draw to define the athlete seeding position.

page - 57
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Seeding in elimination bracket system is set up to have the draw placing the:
• Number one (1) seed vs. the number eight (8) seed in Pool A.
• Number two (2) seed vs. the number seven (7) seed in Pool C.
• Number three (3) seed vs. the number six (6) seed in Pool D.
• Number (4) seed vs. the number five (5) seed in Pool B.

Seeded athletes are always placed in the same position on the draw sheet.

Seeding in the low numbers 3+2 system is set up to have the draw placing the number
one (1) seed vs. the number five (5) seed in the lower half while the number two (2),
three (3) and number four (4) seeds are in the upper Round Robin half.

Seeded athletes/teams, when possible, do not have to compete in the first round.

When there is an incomplete round the seeded athletes/teams do not have to compete
in the first round. When there are 9 athletes/teams the number eight (8) seed will have a
first-round contest, when there are 10 athletes/teams the number seven (7) and number
eight (8) seeds will have a first-round contest, and so on.

page - 58
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

page - 59
OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN
The official weigh-in is the responsibility of the IJF Sport
Commission.
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

6.1 Location of the Official Weigh-in

The weigh-in can take place in one (1) location, either in the competition venue or in an
official hotel allocated by local organising committee (LOC) for participating delegations.
From the arrival of the first delegation, a minimum of one (1) set of test scales should
be available in a closed room/space in each official hotel. The room/space must be
suitable for the athletes to undress to check their weight in private. The test scales
must be available daily between 08:00 – 22:00 for athletes to check their weight. The
International Judo Federation (IJF) Sport Commission should be informed if there are
any issues with the test scales.

6.2 Official Weigh-in Rules

The official weigh-in should be held in separate rooms for men and women with enough
calibrated electronic scales (maximum 4 digits (000.0), 200 kg capacity) showing only
one decimal place e.g., 51.9 kg, 154.6 kg. If the official scales show more than one
decimal place the additional decimal places must be covered by tape.

If more than one (1) scale is being used, then the weight category to be controlled
should be clearly indicated beside that scale. A level solid floor is preferred, but if the
room has a carpet the scales should be placed on a large piece of level solid wood.

For IJF events the official weigh-in is organised one day before the competition at 16:00.
If for any reason (e.g., Olympic Games opening ceremony) a different time is proposed,
it shall be agreed by the IJF Sport Commission.

The unofficial weigh-in will start 40 minutes before the official weigh-in and end 10
minutes before the official weigh-in. The official weigh-in period will be between 30 - 60
minutes, the exact times will be published in the event outlines.

Athletes are allowed to check their weight on the official weigh-in scales from 40 - 10
minutes before the official weigh-in commences. There is no limit to the number of times
each athlete may check their weight during the time of the unofficial weigh-in.

Passing the official weigh-in is the responsibility of the athlete. During the official
weigh-in only the weight registered on the official scale, for the weight category, will be
considered.

page - 61
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

6.2.1 Individual Events Official Weigh-In

Junior and senior athletes must be within the weight limits of a category in which they
are inscribed (see 2.2.1), there is no additional weight tolerance.

In the cadets age category athletes are NOT allowed to remove their underclothing (men
– underpants, women – underpants and bra); to compensate an additional 200 g will be
allowed i.e., for the category -44 kg the limit will be -44.2 kg.

Weight Categories for Cadets with +200 g Tolerance

-40 kg Up to and including 40.2 kg
-44 kg Over 40.0 kg up to and including 44.2 kg
-48 kg Over 44.0 kg up to and including 48.2 kg
Cadet Women -52 kg Over 48.0 kg up to and including 52.2 kg
under 18 years -57 kg Over 52.0 kg up to and including 57.2 kg
-63 kg Over 57.0 kg up to and including 63.2 kg
-70 kg Over 63.0 kg up to and including 70.2 kg
+70 kg Over 70.0 kg
-50 kg Up to and including 50.2 kg
-55 kg Over 50.0 kg up to and including 55.2 kg
-60 kg Over 55.0 kg up to and including 60.2 kg
Cadet Men -66 kg Over 60.0 kg up to and including 66.2 kg
under 18 years -73 kg Over 66.0 kg up to and including 73.2 kg
-81 kg Over 73.0 kg up to and including 81.2 kg
-90 kg Over 81.0 kg up to and including 90.2 kg
+90 kg Over 90.0 kg

6.2.2 Mixed Teams Official Weigh-in

The athletes must be within the weight limits of the category in which they are inscribed.

There is a +5% tolerance for athletes (except for athletes +70 kg and +90 kg senior
and junior categories and +63 kg and +81 kg cadet categories), who competed in the
preceding individual competition, if applicable, (they must have passed the official
weigh-in for the individual competition) and NO tolerance for athletes who are only
inscribed for the team competition or who did not pass the official weigh-in for the
preceding individual competition (if applicable).

page - 62
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Weight Categories for Mixed Team Competitions with +5% Tolerance

-57 kg Women Up to and including 59.9 kg
-73 kg Men Up to and including 76.7 kg
Senior
and Junior -70 kg Women Over 57.0 kg up to and including 73.5 kg
Mixed -90 kg Men Over 73.0 kg up to and including 94.5 kg
Team +70 kg Women Over 70.0 kg
+90 kg Men Over 90.0 kg
-57 kg Women (48 kg, 52 kg, 57 kg*) Up to and including 59.9 kg
Senior -73 kg Men (60 kg, 66 kg, 73 kg*) Up to and including 76.7 kg
Mixed -70 kg Women (57 kg, 63 kg, 70 kg*) Up to and including 73.5 kg
Team
Olympic -90 kg Men (73 kg, 81 kg, 90 kg*) Up to and including 94.5 kg
Games +70 kg Women (70 kg, 78 kg, +78 kg*) Over 70.0 kg
+90 kg Men (90 kg, 100 kg, +100 kg*) Over 90.0 kg
-48 kg Women Up to and including 50.4 kg
-60 kg Men Up to and including 63 kg
Cadet -63 kg Women Over 48 kg up to and including 66.2 kg
Mixed
Team -81 kg Men Over 60 kg up to and including 85.1 kg
+63 kg Women Over 63.0 kg
+81 kg Men Over 81.0 kg

*Athletes qualified only in these individual categories can take part in the mixed team
category.

Athletes competing on the last day of the individual event that precedes a mixed team
event do not have to pass the mixed teams weigh-in if they are inscribed in the plus
categories. Athletes inscribed in the minus categories MUST weigh-in and a +5% weight
tolerance will be given.

IJF mixed An athlete competing in An athlete competing An athlete competing

team event these categories in the in these mixed team in these mixed team
individual competition categories MUST weigh- categories DOES
the day before the mixed in (+5% tolerance will be NOT need to weigh-in
team event must follow given)
the rules in the next
columns
Cadets Women: -70 kg, +70 kg Women: -48 kg, -63 kg Women: +63 kg
Men: -90 kg, +90 kg Men: -60 kg, -81 kg Men: +81 kg
Juniors Women: -78 kg, +78 kg Women: -57 kg, -70 kg Women: +70 kg
Men: -100 kg, +100 kg Men: -73 kg, -90 kg Men: +90 kg
Seniors Women: +78 kg Women: -57 kg, -70 kg Women: +70 kg
Men: -100 kg, +100 kg Men: -73 kg, -90 kg Men: +90 kg

The IJF Sport Commission will arrange the weigh-in after the athlete has finished
competing in the individual event. The details of the weigh-in will be described in the
outlines for the event.

page - 63
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

6.2.3 Female and Male Teams Official Weigh-in

The athletes must be within the weight limits of the category in which they are inscribed.

There is a +5% tolerance for athletes who competed in the preceding individual
competition, if applicable, (they must have passed the official weigh-in for the
individual competition) and NO tolerance for athletes who are only inscribed for the
team competition or who did not pass the official weigh-in for the preceding individual
competition (if applicable).

Weight Categories for Team Competitions with +5% Tolerance

-52 kg Up to and including 54.6 kg
-57 kg Over 52.0 kg up to and including 59.9 kg
Senior and Junior Women
-63 kg Over 57.0 kg up to and including 66.2 kg
Team
-70 kg Over 63.0 kg up to and including 73.5 kg
+70 kg Over 70.0 kg
-48 kg Up to and including 50.4 kg
-52 kg Over 48.0 kg up to and including 54.6 kg
Cadet Women
-57 kg Over 52.0 kg up to and including 59.9 kg
Team
-63 kg Over 57.0 kg up to and including 66.2 kg
+63 kg Over 63.0 kg
-66 kg Up to and including 69.3 kg
-73 kg Over 66.0 kg up to and including 76.7 kg
Senior and Junior Men Team -81 kg Over 73.0 kg up to and including 85.1 kg
-90 kg Over 81.0 kg up to and including 94.5 kg
+90 kg Over 90.0 kg
-60 kg Up to and including 63.0 kg
-66 kg Over 60.0 kg up to and including 69.3 kg
Cadet Men -73 kg Over 66.0 kg up to and including 76.7 kg
Team
-81 kg Over 73.0 kg up to and including 85.1 kg
+81 kg Over 81.0 kg

Athletes competing on the last day of the individual event that precedes a team event do
not have to pass the teams weigh-in if they are inscribed in the plus categories. Athletes
inscribed in the minus categories MUST weigh-in and a +5% weight tolerance will be
given.

The IJF Sport Commission will arrange the weigh-in after the athlete has finished
competing in the individual event. The details of the weigh-in will be described in the
outlines for the event.

6.3 Official Weigh-in Procedure

The LOC shall make available a minimum of two (2) national referees/officials per each
official scale. One to check the passport and weight of the athlete and one to record the
exact weight on the official weigh-in list. An additional official/volunteer should also be
available to control the flow of athletes.

To protect the privacy of the athletes, officials supervising the weigh-in must be of the
same gender as the athletes.

page - 64
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The IJF IT team in charge of the event shall make available one copy of the weigh-in
list for each weight category for the LOC and one copy for the members of the IJF Sport
Commission conducting the weigh-in before the scheduled start of the official weigh-in
period.

Photography or filming is not permitted in the weigh-in area.

Procedure:
• Access to the weigh-in rooms is restricted based on gender. For example, only male
coaches, team officials, athletes, and officials are allowed in the men’s official weigh-
in room and vice versa. All coaches and other team delegates must leave the weigh-
in room before the start of the unofficial weigh-in and may not return until the end of
the official weigh-in.
• The weigh-in should have a calm and quiet atmosphere to ensure a smooth and
quick process. Athletes should remain quiet throughout the process unless asked a
question by a weigh-in official.
• To ensure a fast and smooth process, before the start of the official weigh-in athletes
should stand in line in their underclothing with their documents ready.
• Athletes shall bring to the weigh-in their IJF accreditation card issued for the
competition and photographic proof of identity. Accepted documents are a valid
passport or a valid national identity card showing the same nationality as the country
of issue. The document presented must be the same nationality that the athlete is
representing in the competition. A travel document which can resemble a passport
will not be accepted. Athletes who have permission to take part in IJF events under
rule 1.7.2 who do not have a valid passport issued by the represented country
must present either a photographic identity or refugee travel document and the IJF
authorisation letter. Athletes shall present all documents to the official who will verify
their identity.
• The official then invites the athlete to stand on the scales.
• Athletes shall weigh-in wearing only underclothing (men – underpants, women –
underpants and bra). Any head covering, watches, glasses, socks, jewellery, and
body piercings must be removed.
• Athletes are allowed to remove their underclothing – without stepping off the scales -
to ensure they reach the minimum or the maximum weight limit of the weight category
in which they are entered.
• Athletes can stand on the scales only once during the official weigh-in period.
• The official supervising the weigh-in shall note and record the weight of the athlete in
kilograms to one decimal point e.g., 51.9 kg, 73.0 kg.
• Athlete steps off the scales.

6.3.1 Failure to Appear for the Official Weigh-in

Should an athlete fail to appear for weigh-in during the official weigh-in period, this
shall be noted beside his name on the official weigh-in list. A weigh-in official and the
IJF delegate shall sign the notation. The athlete will be excluded from the competition.
A decision on special cases (force majeure etc.) will be taken by the IJF Sport
Commission.

6.3.2 Failure to Weigh Within the Prescribed Limits of a Category

Should an athlete weigh either above or below the prescribed limits for the category in
which he is entered, the exact weight shall be recorded and signed by a weigh-in official,
and a member of the IJF Sport Commission and by the athlete himself or a member of
his delegation. The athlete shall be excluded from the competition.

page - 65
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

6.3.3 Failure to Comply with Official Directions or with the

Requirements of the IJF SOR
If at any stage during the weigh-in, an athlete fails to comply with the directions of any
weigh-in official or an IJF delegate or fails to comply with the requirements of the IJF
Sport and Organisation Rules (SOR), the athlete shall be prevented from participating in
the weigh-in and the nature of the infraction brought immediately to the attention of the
IJF Sport Director.

6.3.4 After Official Weigh-in Procedure

Anyone not passing the official weigh-in will not be allowed to take part in the
competition (refer to Section 3.5).

6.4 Random Weigh-in

Random weight checks for athletes will be organised and are the responsibility of the IJF
Education and Coaching Commission. There will be no random weigh-in for IJF Mixed
Team events.

For IJF World Judo Tour (WJT) events the random weigh-in will open one hour before
the start of the competition each day. The time limit to arrive to the random weigh-in is
30 minutes or 6 contests before the athlete’s first contest at the latest.

The athletes must bring their accreditation for identification. The weight of the athlete
cannot be more than 5 % higher than the official maximum weight limit of the category
(refer to table 6.4.4: Weight Categories for the Random Weigh-in with Tolerances).

6.4.1 Draw of the Athletes (individual events)

The draw of the athletes will be done by means of software on a laptop, one (1) hour
before the start of the competition. This will be done at the place of the IJF IT person
running the competition. Four athletes per category (except those that are plus
categories) will be drawn.

6.4.2 Collecting the Athletes

The list of named athletes drawn for the random weigh-in will be officially posted on the
official notice board placed near the warm-up area and online in the IJF notice board
Telegram group.

6.4.3 Random Weigh-in Procedure

Four (4) volunteers (two (2) men and two (2) women) will operate the random weigh-in.
Two (2) volunteers will identify the athletes and the two (2) others will proceed with the
random weigh-in in two (2) separate private rooms. Test scales should be available for
the duration of the random weigh-in so that the athletes can test their weight before they
choose to go to the official weigh-in.

6.4.4 After Random Weigh-in Procedure

Anyone not passing the random weigh-in will not be allowed to take part in the
competition (refer to Section 3.5).

page - 66
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Weight Categories for the Random Weigh-in with Tolerances

Senior and Junior Women +5% Tolerance
-48 kg Up to and including 48.0 kg Up to and including 50.4 kg
-52 kg Over 48.0 kg up to and including 52.0 kg Over 48.0 kg up to and including 54.6 kg
-57 kg Over 52.0 kg up to and including 57.0 kg Over 52.0 kg up to and including 59.9 kg
-63 kg Over 57.0 kg up to and including 63.0 kg Over 57.0 kg up to and including 66.2 kg
-70 kg Over 63.0 kg up to and including 70.0 kg Over 63.0 kg up to and including 73.5 kg
-78 kg Over 70.0 kg up to and including 78.0 kg Over 70.0 kg up to and including 81.9 kg
Senior and Junior Men +5% Tolerance
-60 kg Up to and including 60.0 kg Up to and including 63.0 kg
-66 kg Over 60.0 kg up to and including 66.0 kg Over 60.0 kg up to and including 69.3 kg
-73 kg Over 66.0 kg up to and including 73.0 kg Over 66.0 kg up to and including 76.7 kg
-81 kg Over 73.0 kg up to and including 81.0 kg Over 73.0 kg up to and including 85.1 kg
-90 kg Over 81.0 kg up to and including 90.0 kg Over 81.0 kg up to and including 94.5 kg
-100 kg Over 90.0 kg up to and including 100.0 kg Over 90.0 kg up to and including 105.0 kg
+5% Tolerance
Cadet Women under 18 years
+0.2 kg allowed for underwear
-40 kg Up to and including 40.0 kg Up to and including 42.2 kg
-44 kg Over 40.0 kg up to and including 44.0 kg Over 40.0 kg up to and including 46.4 kg
-48 kg Over 44.0 kg up to and including 48.0 kg Over 44.0 kg up to and including 50.6 kg
-52 kg Over 48.0 kg up to and including 52.0 kg Over 48.0 kg up to and including 54.8 kg
-57 kg Over 52.0 kg up to and including 57.0 kg Over 52.0 kg up to and including 60.1 kg
-63 kg Over 57.0 kg up to and including 63.0 kg Over 57.0 kg up to and including 66.4 kg
-70 kg Over 63.0 kg up to and including 70.0 kg Over 63.0 kg up to and including 73.7 kg
+5% Tolerance
Cadet Men under 18 years
+0.2 kg allowed for underwear
-50 kg Up to and including 50.0 kg Up to and including 52.7 kg
-55 kg Over 50 kg up to and including 55.0 kg Over 50 kg up to and including 58.0 kg
-60 kg Over 55 kg up to and including 60.0 kg Over 55 kg up to and including 63.2 kg
-66 kg Over 60 kg up to and including 66.0 kg Over 60 kg up to and including 69.5 kg
-73 kg Over 66 kg up to and including 73.0 kg Over 66 kg up to and including 76.9 kg
-81 kg Over 73 kg up to and including 81.0 kg Over 73 kg up to and including 85.3 kg
-90 kg Over 81 kg up to and including 90.0 kg Over 81 kg up to and including 94.7 kg

page - 67
EDUCATION AND
COACHING
Education and Coaching is the responsibility of the
IJF Education and Coaching Commission.
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

7.1 Coaches’ Code of Conduct

Coaches must respect the Code of Ethics, statutes and regulations of the International
Judo Federation (IJF). In the case of an infringement proven, penalties may range
from a simple verbal warning to exclusion of competition. The IJF Ad Hoc Commission
may consider sending a report to the IJF Secretary General calling for the opening of a
disciplinary session.

Coaches must make sure that their athletes follow the instructions of the organisers, the
schedules and different protocols.

Coach positions are provided for each tatami and the coach must remain seated on
the chair throughout the contest. The coach who enters the field of play with the athlete
is the only coach allowed to sit in the coach’s chair, he cannot be replaced by another
coach during the contest.

During the contest the coach can only give instructions from this position. Coaching is
authorised only during the pause after Mate! and before Hajime! It is strictly limited to
communication with his athlete, for tactical advice, encouragements, and instructions.

If a coach gives indications during the contest, he receives a first warning. In case of
repetition, he will be excluded from the competition area for the rest of the day. Any
attitude contrary to the spirit of judo will be penalised.

If a coach is sanctioned by a referee, the Referee Director will inform immediately the
Director of Education for a sanction to be applied.

If an accredited coach communicates from the tribunes, his accreditation will be

withdrawn, and he will be excluded from the sport hall.

The coach during the contest must not be in possession of a communication device. If
this is the case, it will be excluded immediately from the competition area.

Coaches are responsible for their delegation and must educate their athletes. If a
delegation does not follow the rules ALL coaches from that delegation will have their
accreditation removed for that day and if found coaching from the tribune will be subject
to a disciplinary sanction.

7.2 Coaches’ Dress Code

Coaches must respect the following dress code:
• Draw: formal suit (jacket, trousers, shirt, and tie for men; jacket, trousers/skirt/dress,
blouse for women) and formal shoes (no sport shoes or flip-flops).
• Preliminary rounds: national tracksuit with trousers reaching down to shoes. Coaches
can wear national official short sleeved or long-sleeved T-shirts and sport shoes (no
flip-flops). The following are forbidden at any time: shorter trousers, undressed upper
body, any kind of head caps or head covering, jeans, sweaters or similar unrelated
sports clothing.
• For the final block program (TV time): formal suit (jacket, trousers, shirt, and tie for
men; jacket, trousers/skirt/dress, blouse for women) and formal shoes (no sport shoes
or flip-flops).

page - 69
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

7.3 Contest Review Process

A coach can request to review a contest at the end of the preliminaries or final block.
A form, available from the person in charge of judogi control, must be completed and
returned to judogi control. Only one coach can attend and may be accompanied by a
translator.

page - 70
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

page - 71
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

COMPETITION
VENUE
The competition venue is the responsibility of the
IJF Sport Commission.

page - 72
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

8.1 Venue
The competition venue should be large enough to host the event and have adequate
seating for spectators, VIPs, delegations, and media. For the Olympic Games the
seating capacity should be a minimum of 10,000. The venue should be well lit and of
a constant temperature of between 18 – 22°C. Information for event organisers can be
found in the International Judo Federation (IJF) Event Organisation Guide (EOG).

To operate effectively, the venue should be separated into zones for different activities
and client groups. Wherever possible, different entry/exit doors and movement flows
should be also be established for different groups. If groups must cross or mix, then it
may be necessary to have security to assist with managing this.

8.2 Training Venue

The LOC shall provide training areas and transport for all delegations. The training
areas should be sufficient to accommodate the number of participants; it should be
adequately ventilated and a temperature of 18 - 22oC maintained. Tatami used in the
training venue should be approved by the IJF Head Sport Director. The tatami must
be placed on a resilient floor at ground level. If the floor is concrete, there should be
Taraflex (or similar) underneath the tatami. The minimum height above the tatami must
be 5 m.

During World Championships and Olympic Games training areas should be provided
that are separate from the warm-up area.

For Olympic Games and other large multi-sport events curtain or screen separation
should be provided for privacy between the delegations with sufficient circulation space
for coaches and support staff and benches for sitting.

Scales and medical provision must be provided. Additional facilities can include
changing rooms with lockers, showers, saunas, fitness equipment and a lounge area
with drinks and snacks.

Training times should be coordinated between the organising committee and the
delegations.

8.3 Judogi Control

Check-in and judogi control are the responsibility of the IJF Education and Coaching
Commission. The Commission must inform, by email, the IJF Secretary General of any
cases where there is a breaching of the rules. The full IJF Judogi Rules can be found in
Appendix C.

8.4 Warm-Up Area

There must be space(s) in the venue for warming up in accordance with the IJF warm-
up area template which includes tatami for training and areas for resting. The size and
final layout of the warm-up area(s) will be agreed by the IJF Sport Commission.
The warm-up area must have the same rules as a dojo and should be always kept tidy.
The main purpose of the warm-up tatami is for the athletes competing that day to warm
up and there will be a strict nothing on the warm-up tatami policy.

Delegations should not guard a space for their team.

page - 73
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The IJF Sport Commission will restrict warm-up area access to those athletes that are
competing that day. If there are no other training venue(s) then non-competing athletes
will not be allowed to access the warm-up area until two (2) hours after the start of the
competition.

Once athletes finish their competition, they should leave the main warm-up area, taking
their belongings, and ensure that the used area remains clean.

Ice and water (in sealed bottles, cans or containers up to 500 ml), with a low sodium
and/or chloride content (below 200 mg/l), must be provided for delegations during the
entire competition. This rule applies to warm-up areas, all training areas, medical rooms
and doping control rooms.

Drinks and snacks are allowed on the resting area. Main meals must take place in the
delegations’ lounge.

For other activities (eating, changing clothes etc.) alternative spaces will be used. It is a
shared space for all athletes to use.

The IJF is committed to helping athletes on their return to competition following childbirth
and will do our best to support those mothers who are breastfeeding babies. Children
are NOT allowed in any of the athlete areas unless it has been approved by the IJF. A
detailed request should be sent to the IJF General Secretariat, by email
([email protected]). Any relevant venue policies will be considered and if approved there must
be no disturbance to other athletes and delegates and if this happens, the access will be
withdrawn.

Media with photographic or television cameras may be given permission to film in the
warm-up area. However, this is not compulsory and is subject to the capacity of the
warm-up area and the feedback from the delegations. Requests to film and take photos
in the warm-up area must be sent at least one week prior to the first day of competition
by the media at [email protected], and must be coordinated by the LOC media department,
under the supervision of the IJF media team. At any time to access to the warm-up area
can be restricted or cancelled. Full access all day is not possible, time slots must be set
up. Interviews in the warm-up area are not permitted as well as tripods.

Tatami used in the warm-up area should respect the IJF tatami rules (see 8.6). The
tatami needs to be placed on a resilient floor at ground level. If the floor is concrete,
there should be Taraflex (or similar) underneath the mats. The minimum height above
the mats must be 5 m.

Screens showing the contest order and live contests should be available in both the
warm-up area and the judogi control areas so that coaches and athletes can always
follow the competition.

A notice board should be placed in or near the warm-up area so that information for the
delegations can be displayed.

8.5 Athlete Seating and Facilities

The athlete tribune, changing rooms, toilets and other facilities etc. should be as close
as possible to the warm-up area.

page - 74
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

8.6 Entry to and Exit from Field of Play

Religious, political, personal, commercial connotation or manifestation is prohibited for
everyone on the field of play.
The venue speaker(s) announce the athletes as they enter the field of play and the
result of the contest.
The athletes go onto the tatami on the side opposite that of the technical table. If the
athletes walk from the left the first athlete called is the one in the blue judogi followed by
white. If it is from the right the first athlete called is the one in the white judogi followed
by blue.

In individual competitions an athlete can be accompanied onto the field of play with one
coach and one doctor who must follow the dress code (for team competitions refer to
Section 2).

Athletes must enter and leave the field of play wearing their judogi in the proper way. It
is not allowed to remove any part of the judogi or the belt or to add items of clothing or
accessories (caps, sunglasses etc.) until the athlete has left both the field of play and
the mixed zone.

The wearing of athlete prescription glasses in the field of play will be permitted but they
must be removed before entering the tatami for their contest.

If an athlete does not arrive at the athlete entry to the tatami on time for their contest the
30 second rule will be applied (see Appendix D, Article 19).
Athletes arriving during the 30 second countdown will not be allowed to have their coach
accompany them.

If an athlete refuses to leave the tatami at the end of the contest, in serious cases both
the athlete and the coach may be subject to a suspension of up to one year.

If any athlete is not able to continue in the competition the IJF Sport Commission
must be informed immediately. The IJF Medical Commission delegate will verify the
withdrawal if it is due to a medical reason.

8.7 Field of Play and Competition Area

A minimum of three entrances to the field of play are needed to run the competition and
if there are less than this, it must be approved by the IJF Sport Commission.
The contest
areas are numbered from left to right from the side where the technical table is located.

To not disturb the running of the competition, delegates should not enter the technical
table unless invited by IJF personnel.
Each competition tatami is divided into two (2) zones: the contest area and the safety
area. Each area is a different colour with sufficient contrast to avoid misleading edge
situations. The IJF Sport Commission must agree the number of contest areas required.
The contest area for IJF events shall be a minimum of 8 m x 8 m and a maximum of 10
m x 10 m. The safety area shall be a minimum of 3 m. Where two (2) or more adjoining
contest areas are used, a common safe zone may be used to satisfy the minimum
distance of 4 m between them. A free zone of 50 cm minimum must be maintained
around the entire competition area. Any requests to change the size of the contest and
safety area must be approved by the IJF Head Sport Director.

page - 75
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

All tatami for IJF events must be IJF approved (the list of official suppliers is available at
https://www.ijf.org/supplier-list). Each tatami should measure 1 m x 2 m x 5 cm and
be made of pressed foam. They must be firm under foot, have the property of absorbing
shock during ukemi, and not be slippery or too rough. The tatami must be placed on a
resilient floor at ground level.

The elements making up the floor surface must be aligned without space in between;
the surface must be smooth and fixed in such a way that the individual mats cannot be
displaced. If the floor is concrete, there should be Taraflex (or similar) underneath the
mats. The minimum height above the tatami must be 12 m from the lowest hanging
object.

The official tatami colours, for IJF World Judo Tour (WJT) events, are yellow (123C)
and red (1795C). Any other colours proposed by the LOC must be approved by the IJF
before use. If a tatami needs to be changed, reserve tatami should be available close to
the field of play.

For Masters, World Championships Seniors and Olympic Games, the contest area shall
be 10 m x 10 m with a minimum common safety area of 4 m and a minimum exterior
safety area of 4 m. This size is also recommended for Continental Championships.

Any decoration on the tatami, such as the host city name, year or event logos, can only
be placed on the safety area, never on the contest area. This decoration should not be
slippery.

The LOC must give the IJF all audio-embedded TV feeds for the Computer Assisted
Replay (CARE) system, live streaming and TV archives. Refer to the EOG for further
information.

For each competition area there must be two (2) scoreboards that indicate the scores
horizontally, placed outside the competition area where they can be easily seen by the
athletes, referees, commission members, officials, and spectators. Manual scoreboards,
manual timers, bell or similar audio device and flags (yellow and green) must be
available as backup.

When using several competition areas at the same time - the use of different audible
signals is required. The time signal must be loud enough to be heard over the noise of
the spectators.

The LOC must have a set of reserve radios in case there are any issues with the IJF
ones.

For certain events e.g., Olympic Games the tatami may be placed on a solid platform.
The platform must be made of wood or a similar material. It must be one metre wider
and longer than the tatami dimensions. The height will depend on the sightlines in the
sport hall. When using a platform, the exterior tatami safety area must be a minimum of
4 m. If the tatami needs to have microphones installed between them then this should
be done by contractors.

page - 76
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

8.8 Medical
All medical matters are the responsibility of the IJF Medical Commission. Refer to the
IJF Medical Handbook in Appendix E.

8.9 Media
forbidden for all media including photographers to live stream at any time during the
draw, competition or any other official IJF activity, unless specifically authorised,
following proper request, by email to [email protected].

They are not allowed to film, or photograph injured or bleeding athletes anywhere in the
venue. Mobile devices must not be used for any function while mat side.

Any member of the media who does not follow the above risks losing their accreditation
and access to the competition.

8.10 Awarding Ceremonies

In IJF events the awarding ceremony area should be set up on the same side of the field
of play as the athlete entry.

Each athlete who has won a medal must be present at the ceremony to receive their
medal personally. The athlete should go to the awarding area immediately after their
medal contest. Any athlete who is absent from the awards ceremony without a good
reason may forfeit the medal and prize money.

Athletes must attend the medal ceremony barefoot, without any hat, cap or any similar
head covering and wearing their IJF approved white judogi that conforms to the IJF
judogi rules with special attention being paid to the advertising rule. If it is not clean, then
they must wear a reserve judogi.

It is strictly prohibited for athletes on the podium to have a mobile phone (or
similar device), national flags or similar items other than those on their judogi. Any
demonstration with religious, political, personal, or commercial connotation is also
prohibited.

For each event the amount of prize money can be found in the outlines. For the prize
money to be paid, each medallist must bring a copy of their passport and their personal
tax number to the awarding ceremony. Prize money will be given to the athletes who are
then responsible to give 20% to their coach.

Athletes must also be available for interview after the last awarding ceremony if
requested by the IJF Media Team. If they do not attend disciplinary action may be taken.

The flags should be hung from left to right - silver, gold, bronze A, bronze B. For a
double hansoku-make in the final the flags should be hung silver A, silver B, no flag,
bronze A, bronze B.

page - 77
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

8.11 Delay, Postponement or Cancellation of a

Competition
In the event of a delay (a competition has not started at its scheduled start time or
is interrupted after the scheduled start) the competition will be restarted if it can be
completed within the scheduled session or an extended session.

If there is a postponement (the competition which was underway cannot be completed

within the scheduled session timings or in an extended session) or a cancellation
(the competition cannot be rescheduled prior to the end of the event) the IJF Ad Hoc
Commission will decide the best course of action.

page - 78
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

page - 79
REGULATIONS
FOR VETERANS
The IJF Veterans Commission is responsible for all IJF
veteran activities ([email protected]).
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

A1.1 Organisation
The Veteran Championships should be a sport festival, a sport competition and a social
event. The aim of the event is to add value to judo as a forever lifestyle, judo for all and
to create a platform according to which judo practitioners live following the principles
and morals taught by Jigoro Kano. The expected outcome is to bring and keep the
International Judo Veterans Family together to unite them, to share experiences and to
keep the spirit of judo alive.

All rules are based on the International Judo Federation (IJF) Sport and Organisation
Rules (SOR), but there must be some tolerance towards those paying their own costs in
order that they can still follow and support the sport of judo.

The championships will take place, as far as possible, in a resort or a city that is a tourist
venue, as the IJF want to merge the judo event with a family and social event.

As the event is very popular, the local organising committee (LOC) should use a venue
that can accommodate a minimum of four tatami. The LOC must provide a set of radios
for the referees and IJF Veterans Commission.

A1.2 Competition Rules for Veterans

The IJF competition rules will apply except for modifications made to age divisions
(Section A1.4), category combining (Section A1.7), contest and golden score duration
(Section A1.6) and round robin golden score (Section A1.14). A registered athlete
can use their athlete accreditation to coach. An additional coach accreditation is not
required. Any athletes that chooses also to coach their colleagues and then don’t follow
Section 7.1 Coaches’ Code of Conduct risk being removed from the competition (i.e., no
longer allowed to compete if applicable).

A1.3 Eligibility to Participate

All the following conditions must be met in full for an individual to be considered eligible
to participate in these championships.

• Not under a disciplinary suspension.

• Not under suspension for anti-doping rule violation.
• Not under medical suspension.
• Healthy and fit for competition.
• Do not carry any communicable diseases that may risk other delegates’ health.
• Hold a current and valid licence (membership) issued by a national federation
currently affiliated to the IJF.
• Pay the appropriate entry fees in full before the deadline set in the event outlines.
• Check in at accreditation (see schedule of accreditation in the event outlines).
• Meet the specific weigh-in requirements.
• Provide photographic proof of their identity and date of birth. Accepted documents are
a valid current passport or a valid national identity card showing the same nationality
as the country of issue. The document presented must be the same nationality that
the athlete is representing in the competition. A travel document which can resemble
a passport will not be accepted. Athletes who have permission to take part in IJF
events under rule 1.7.2 who do not have a valid passport issued by the represented
country must present either a photographic identity or refugee travel document and
the IJF authorisation letter.
• All athletes must have obtained the minimum grade of first kyu.

page - 81
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Coaches at the World Championships Veterans do not need to have the IJF Academy
Level 1 Instructor, the Undergraduate certificate Judo Instructor (UCJI), or the Master
Coach certification.

To compete, athletes must have a medical certificate issued by an authorised body

of the country they represent. It must be valid for the day(s) of participation in the
competition, not older than one (1) year and can be easily read if hand-written.

Certificates must be issued in or translated to one of IJF’s official languages (English,

French, Spanish).

The medical certificate must be uploaded to my.ijf.org by the athlete’s national judo
federation.

For information about the medical certificate contact [email protected]

The minimum age for participation in the World Veterans is to be 30 years or over
in the year of the event. This defines the age at which athletes first become eligible
to compete. Once an athlete has become eligible, they will be allocated into their
appropriate age category e.g., M1/F1 will consist of athletes who have their 30th, 31st,
32nd, 33rd or 34th birthday and the M2/F2 will consist of athletes who have their 35th, 36th,
37th, 38th or 39th birthday at any date during the year of the World Championships.

A1.3.1 Event Inscription

All participating delegates must have a valid IJF card, see 4.2 Entries for IJF World Judo
Tour (WJT) Events.

Inscription must be done in Judobase by the national federation by the event deadline
which will be published in the event outlines.

IJF nationality rules (IJF SOR, section 1.7) must be respected, and athletes must be
of the same nationality as the national federation for which they have been entered for
the competition. The evidence of nationality shall be the production of a valid passport
issued by the represented country.

Individual athletes and national clubs must contact the national federation to be
inscribed. Inscriptions on the spot can only be done with the written permission of the
national federation.

There is no limit to the number of athletes from the same country that can be inscribed
in a category.

page - 82
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

A1.4 Age Divisions for Veterans

Athletes will be allocated an age division based on:
a) Meeting the entrance criteria of a minimum of 30 years of age within the year of the
event and,
b) Their date of birth in line with the following age ranges:
Age Division Actual Age (in year of event)
F1/M1 30-34
F2/M2 35-39
F3/M3 40-44
F4/M4 45-49
F5/M5 50-54
F6/M6 55-59
F7/M7 60 - 64 (no shime-waza)
F8/M8 65 - 69 (no shime-waza)
F9/M9 70+ (no shime-waza)

A1.5 Weight Categories for Veterans

The weight categories are the same as those for senior men and women.

A1.6 Time Duration of Contests for Veterans

Duration (minutes) for individual events will be as follows:
• M1/F1 to M6/F6: three (3) minutes.
• M7/F7 and over: two and a half (2.5) minutes.

Age Range Age Division Contest Duration Golden Score

30-59 M1/F1 to/including M6/F6 3 minutes No limit
60+ M7/F7 to/including M9/F9 2.5 minutes 1 minute

*If a tie exists at the end of the one (1) minute golden score time, the referee, in
consultation with the table jury will determine the winner without calling hantei.

A1.7 Category Combining for Veterans

To facilitate the best possible application of the category combining policy it will be used
when a category has a small number of entries, and all the female categories will be
held on the same day.

A technical official from the IJF will delegate responsibility to a suitable individual,
representing the host organisation, who will be responsible for operating the category
combining policy. This policy applies to all weight categories within all age divisions.

page - 83
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Category combining may only be applied to categories where there are less than
three entrants. If category combining cannot be achieved safely and according to the
guidelines, then a pool of two (2) elimination system may be considered. The best of
three contests between the two (2) athletes, if the result is 2-0 then the third contest will
not be fought.

• Combining within the same age division - athletes should remain within their age
division if possible.
• Combining using weight categories – athletes should only be combined with other
athletes who are no more than one weight category lighter or one weight category
heavier. Special consideration should be given to the actual weight differences
when dealing with the lightest and the heaviest female and male categories (as a
guideline a maximum of 10 kg actual difference when combining the lightest weight
category and a maximum of 20 kg actual difference when combining the heaviest
weight category should be considered as a limit unless there are other compensatory
factors such as experience etc.). Weight should be the primary consideration when
moving athletes about within their own age division or combining them with other age
divisions in accordance with the guidelines below.

Age divisions:
• Athletes in age divisions M7 or F7 and above (M8/F8 and M9/F9) may only be
combined with other athletes who are no more than one age division higher or
more than one age division lower i.e., athletes in M7/F7 may only be combined with
athletes from M6/F6 or M8/F8.
• Athletes in divisions M6 or F6 may be combined with athletes no more than one age
division higher or two age divisions lower. i.e., M7/F7, M5/F5 and M4/F4.
• Athletes in divisions M5 or F5 may be combined with athletes no more than one age
division above or two age divisions below i.e., M6/F6, M4/F4 and M3/F3.
• Athletes in divisions M4 or F4 may be combined with athletes no more than two age
divisions above or two age divisions below i.e., M5/F5, M6/F6, M3/F3 and M2/F2.
• Athletes in divisions M3 or F3 may be combined with athletes no more than two age
divisions above or two age divisions below i.e., M4/F4, M5/F5, M1/F1 and M2/F2.
• Athletes in age divisions M2 or F2 may only be combined with athletes two age
divisions above and one age division below i.e., M3/F3, M4/F4 and M1/F1.
• Athletes in age divisions M1 or F1 may only be combined with athletes in two age
divisions above i.e., M2/F2 and M3/F3.

Age Division Higher Age Division Lower Age Division Age Span
F1/M1 F2/M2, F3/M3 Not applicable 30-44
F2/M2 F3/M3, F4/M4 F1/M1 30-49
F3/M3 F4/M4, F5/M5 F1/M1, F2/M2 30-54
F4/M4 F5/M5, F6/M6 F2/M2, F3/M3 35-59
F5/M5 F6/M6 F3/M3, F4/M4 40-59
F6/M6 F7/M7 F4/M4, F5/M5 45-64
F7/M7 F8/M8 F6/M6 55-69
F8/M8 F9/M9 F7/M7 60-70+
F9/M9 Not applicable F8/M8 65-70+

page - 84
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

A1.8 Draw for Veterans

The draw for the individual weight categories will take place at 19.00 hours on the
day before the competition. Information on the exact location of the individual weight
category draws will be displayed on the event official notice board.
A complete list of athletes who have successfully fulfilled the weight requirements will
be displayed outside the room where the official draw will take place a minimum of 15
minutes prior to the draw starting.

Team officials from each country (or individual athletes) must check this list to ensure
that all their athletes are on the list in the correct age division and weight category. The
IJF Veterans Commission take no responsibility for someone who is not included in the
draw because they were missing from the list, and no one from the delegation checked.

A1.9 Seeding for Veterans

In the veterans’ event, there is no seeding.

A1.10 Weigh-in for Veterans

The weigh-in will take place the day before the competition as indicated in the outlines.
There is no random weigh-in for veterans.

A1.11 Judogi Rules for Veterans

All athletes MUST compete wearing a white or blue IJF approved judogi and belt (see
IJF website for the list of suppliers). The judogi and belt must conform to the rules in
Appendix C.

A1.12 Backnumbers for Veterans

The backnumber must conform to the rules in Appendix C.

A1.13 Competition System for Veterans

The type of competitions system to be applied in the competition will depend on the
number of entries as follows:

Competition systems according to number of participants:

• 6 and more entries: double repechage
• 3, 4, 5 entries: round robin
• 2 entries: best of 2 contests, if 1-1 the third contest will decide.

In case the number of participants in a category is not sufficient, (age and/or weight)
categories will be combine according to IJF SOR. All the contests in any one age
division will be held on the same day.

The IJF do not have team events for veterans. If other organisations choose to hold
team events the rules should be clearly defined in the event outlines.

A1.14 Round Robin Golden Score

If a round robin contest goes into golden score, an athlete can hold osaekomi-waza until
for ippon.

page - 85
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

A1.15 Awarding of Medals for Veterans

Medals will only be awarded to athletes who fought in the category. The number of
athletes competing determines the eventual medal allocation.
The medal distribution rule is as follows:
• One athlete - no medal will be awarded (the athlete will receive a participation medal
from IJF. There will be no flag, national anthem during this awarding ceremony).
• Two athletes – two medals awarded.
• Three athletes – three medals awarded.
• Four athletes – four medals awarded.
• Five athletes – four medals awarded.
• Six or more athletes – four medals awarded.

If a category has been combined the only medals awarded will be the one set of medals
for the athletes in that combined category.

Awards for the recognition of exemplary behaviour that promotes the spirit of judo and/
or fair play may be awarded at the discretion of the IJF Veterans Commission.

page - 86
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

page - 87
REGULATIONS
FOR KATA
The IJF Kata Commission is responsible for
all IJF kata activities.
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

B1.1 Eligibility to Participate

National federations must follow IJF nationality rules – refer to Section 1.7
Athletes can only enter one age category.
Participants must wear a white judogi, a black belt and a backnumber in accordance
with International Judo Federation (IJF) Sport and Organisation Rules (SOR) Appendix
C. A brown belt without an IJF label is authorised for the under 23 age category.

Pairs participating in Kodokan-goshin-jutsu and kime-no-kata are responsible to bring

their weapons.

Seniors category:
Each national federation may enter in the competition a maximum of 10 pairs and a
maximum of 3 pairs in a kata.

Participants must be a minimum of 16 years of age in the year of the competition. They
shall have a minimum of 1st dan.

Pairs may be formed of either two (2) males, two (2) females, or a male and a female.

They will have the opportunity to do one of the following kata: nage-no-kata, katame-no-
kata, ju-no-kata, Kodokan goshin-jutsu and kime-no-kata.

The athletes can only participate in one kata.

U-23 category:
Each national federation may enter in the competition a maximum of three (3) pairs in a
kata.

For the U-23 age category both tori and uke must be under 23 years old and at least 16
years old in the year of the competition. They shall have a minimum of 1st Kyu.

Pairs may be formed of either two (2) males, two (2) females, or a male and a female.

A pair can do one kata between nage-no-kata (5 sets), ju-no-kata (3 sets) and katame-
no-kata (3 sets). They will also have the opportunity to perform in two (2) kata, nage-no-
kata and katame-no-kata or nage-no-kata (5 sets) and ju-no-kata (3 sets).

Participants will have the opportunity to play the same role in the second kata or reverse
roles or to do the second kata with a different partner.

B1.2 Accreditation
The times and place for check-in and accreditation will be specified in the event outlines.

Number of accreditations for officials:

• One – three (1-3) pairs: five (5) officials
• Four – ten (4-10) pairs: ten (10) officials

page - 89
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

B1.3 Draw
The draw to establish the groups and the sort of each group will be done the day before
the competition. The pairs medallists from the previous World Championships will be
considered seeded and will be divided into two groups if there are 10 pairs or more. The
draw of the finals will be done in the sports hall after the preliminary rounds.

B1.4 Competition Formula

Each kata will be divided into two (2) groups: the top three (3) pairs with the maximum
points from each group (that is six pairs for each kata) will compete in the finals. Three
(3) or four (4) mats will be used for the preliminary rounds and three mats for the final. If
the number of pairs is less than ten (10), there will be only one (1) group: the top six (6)
pairs from the group will compete in the final.

B1.5 Judges and the System of Judging

The contests will be judged by IJF qualified kata judges. The number of judges per
national federation is limited to:
• Participating countries may enter four (4) judges.
• Non-participating countries may enter three (3) judges.

A judge cannot be an athlete.

The IJF “2024 Criteria for Kata Evaluation” will be used to judge the kata with reference
also to the official Kodokan kata textbooks.

Judges must attend the technical meeting the afternoon before the first day of
competition to confirm participation as judge in these championships. Time and place
are stated in the event outlines.

For each performance, the five judges will award points on the official IJF electronic
scoring system.

Three scores will be totalled to obtain the score of a technique (the maximum score and
the minimum score will be cancelled for each technique). The final score of the whole
kata will be the sum of the scores for each technique.

The evaluation of every technique of kata must consider the principle and the
opportunity of execution: the evaluation (including the opening and closing ceremony)
must be comprehensive. In the nage-no-kata, right and left techniques will be evaluated
comprehensively (only one score).

Definition of mistakes:
• Forgotten technique/major mistake - will score zero and in addition the total final
score of the kata pair will be halved. If more than one technique is forgotten the score
for that technique will also be zero but the total final score for the pair will not be
halved again.
• Big mistake - when the execution of the principle is incorrect (5 points are deducted,
and the maximum number of crosses is 1).
• Medium mistake - when one or more elements of the principle are not applied in the
correct way (3 points are deducted and the maximum number of crosses is 1).
• Small mistake - imperfection in the application of the technique (1 point is deducted
and the maximum number of crosses is 2).

page - 90
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The total score for each technique can be increased or decreased by 0,5 point adding in
the column of the “correction value” a “ + ” or a “ - “.

The five judges will be positioned on the shomen side and they will sit at approximately
1.5 m apart. The rule of neutrality will be applied so the judge must be of a different
nationality than the competing pair. The position of the five judges will be the same
throughout the competition. If a judge is temporarily replaced, he will take place in the
same original position when he returns to the competition. The judges must take up their
position before the arrival of the pair in the competition area.

The pair enters and leaves the mat at the opposite side of shomen: the beginning
and end of kata (opening and closing ceremony) is at an 8 m or 10 m distance apart
depending on the dimension of the tatami (bow to the tatami). Any behaviour of tori or
uke inside the competition area that is contrary to the spirit of kata will reduce the score
of the kata.

The pair who has the better score will win.

In case of equal score between pairs, the following criteria will be applied as a tie
breaker:
• Total number of big mistakes of all five (5) judges will be considered - the pair who
made the fewer big mistakes wins.
• If still equal, total number of medium mistakes of all five (5) judges will be
considered - the pair who made the fewer medium mistakes wins.
• If still equal, total number of small mistakes of all five (5) judges will be considered –
the pair who made the fewer small mistakes wins.

If two pairs, both placing 3rd in the eliminations (or 6th place in case of only one (1)
group) are still equal after all the above-mentioned criteria, both pairs will qualify for the
final. If two pairs placing 1st, 2nd or 3rd during the final are still equal after the above-
mentioned criteria, the kata will be repeated so that the medals can be assigned.

B1.6 Competition Area

The competition area dimension is 10 m x 10 m or 8 m x 8 m and shall be covered by
tatami. Two strips of visible coloured adhesive tape, approximately 5 cm wide and 50 cm
long, shall be fixed 3 m apart from the centre, to indicate the starting position of tori and
uke. The centre of the competition area shall be indicated with a strip of adhesive tape
of the same colour. The safety area between and around the mat must be a minimum of
2 m.

B1.7 Awarding Ceremony

For each kata, the pair with the maximum points in the final will be awarded the gold
medal, the pair with the second most points will be awarded the silver medal; and the
third pair, the bronze medal.

Medals will be awarded following a performance by a pair according to standings

regardless the number of pairs.

All finalists, including 4th to 6th place will receive a certificate.

page - 91
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

B1.8 Coaches
No coach will be admitted, as coaching is not allowed.

B1.9 Medical Situation

Minor injury and illness:
• In case of a minor injury like bloody wound, broken nails or a problem with contact
lenses etc., and according to the decision of the judges, the kata performance will
be stopped, and the athlete will be assisted by a doctor out of the competition area if
needed. The competition will continue, and the pair will repeat entirely the kata after
the last pair has performed.

• In case another minor injury happens to the same athlete during the second
performance of the kata or after a forgotten technique or a major mistake, the pair
will be given a score of 0 for the technique where the injury occurred as well as for
the following techniques including the closing ceremony. A ranking will be assigned
to them in the pool or in the final. If ranking them allows them to participate in the
final, the next pair in the ranking from the pool will participate in the final.

Major injury or illness:

• When tori or uke is unable to continue to perform the kata because of an injury,
illness or accident during the execution of the kata, the pair will be given a score of
0 for the technique where the injury occurred as well as for the following techniques
including the closing ceremony. A ranking will be assigned to them in the pool or
in the final. If ranking them allows them to participate in the final, and they are not
physically able to compete, the next pair in the ranking from the pool will participate
in the final

B1.10 Judogi Control

At the time of accreditation:
The head of the delegation will certify that his athletes are wearing a judogi that
complies with the IJF regulations. He will attest it by signature.

During the competition:

• The control of the judogi will be done before each performance in the judogi control
area.
• Verification of the IJF labels (red or green), on the jacket, the trousers and the belt
(blue labels are also authorised for the belt), (SOR C1.2).
• Verification that the logos, national emblem, marking and advertising on the judogi
respect the provisions of the IJF (SOR C1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6).
• Verification of the official IJF backnumber, the name of the athlete and the National
Olympic Committee (NOC) abbreviation on the backnumber are in accordance with
the one on the accreditation card (SOR C1.8). If the country does not have a NOC
then the three letter country code recognised by the IJF must be used.
• Verification of the jacket crossing points, the length of the jacket skirt, the sleeves,
the trousers and the belt (SOR C1.10).
• The T-shirt for women must be white, with short sleeves and a round neck (SOR
C1.11).

If there is a breach of this regulation, it will be reported to the judges who will penalize
the athlete in the scoring.

page - 92
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

page - 93
IJF JUDOGI RULES
Judogi control during IJF events is the responsibility of
the IJF Education and Coaching Commission.
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

C1.1 IJF Approved Judogi

Athletes participating in International Judo Federation (IJF) official events should comply
with the IJF Judogi regulations.
National federations of the competing athletes are responsible for ensuring that the
athletes are wearing approved IJF judogi that comply with the IJF judogi rules. In the
spirit of fair play if an athlete does not have his judogi due to it being lost or stolen, on
production of an airline (or train) lost baggage claim or a police report, reserve judogi will
be given and the coach permitted to sit in the chair.

The list of IJF approved judogi suppliers is available here: www.ijf.org/supplier-list

The judogi consists of a jacket and a pair of trousers and must be worn with a belt. The
brand of both the jacket and trousers must be the same. Reversible judogi (white one
side and blue on the other) are not allowed. The jacket must be worn with the left side
crossed over the right. The belt can be of a different brand that is approved by the IJF.
An athlete is not allowed to compete wearing a red and white belt. If the athlete wears
a belt of a colour other than black, it must be made of a flexible material and is exempt
from having the official IJF label.

Female athletes shall and male athletes may wear a short-sleeved white T-shirt, with a
round neck (see C1.1. T-shirt).

Any manufacturers design on the inside of the jacket or trousers should not be visible at
any time during the contest. If it is a deliberate act, the athlete will be disqualified.

C1.1.1 Location of the Judogi and Backnumber Pre-Control

The judogi and backnumber pre-control can take place either in the competition venue
or in an official hotel allocated by organisers for participating delegations.

Organisers should provide for the judogi and backnumber pre-control a room, with
sufficient space, ten (10) tables, ten (10) chairs and volunteers. Large waste baskets
should be provided.

C1.1.2 Judogi and Backnumber Pre-Control

The IJF will arrange a judogi and backnumber pre-control starting two days before the
first competition day, until the day before the last competition day. The exact time shall
be mentioned in the outlines of the event.

C1.1.2.1 Judogi Pre-Control

The judogi pre-control will be operated upon request of the athletes who wish to do so.
For this purpose, the athletes should wear their judogi with the belt tightened.

C1.1.2.2 Backnumber Pre-Control

For the backnumber pre-control, athletes must bring both judogi (white and blue), for a
control regarding any worn-out areas particularly on the collar and lapel, the colour, the
IJF official label (obligatory), judogi brand (obligatory), national emblem, advertising,
backnumber stitching, and any visible stains. Only if the judogi are compliant with the
IJF rules sponsor labels will be given.

page - 95
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Athletes must show up for the backnumber pre-control. If they fail to do so, without a
valid reason, the athlete will not be allowed to have a coach in the chair.

C1.1.3 Consequences of Failing Judogi Control

On each competition day the official judogi control will take place for each contest.

During the preliminaries, for the first contest, athletes and their coaches must arrive
together at judogi control 15 minutes before the contest. For the following contests,
athletes and their coaches must arrive together at least three (3) contests before their
own (not counting the contest in progress).

During the final block, for the first contest, athletes and their coaches must arrive
together 10 minutes before the contest. For the following contests, athletes and their
coaches must arrive together at least two (2) contests before their own (not counting the
contest in progress).

If the coach arrives late, he will not be allowed to accompany his athlete. However, if the
coach is not present for a valid reason (such as coaching another athlete at the same
time) they will be allowed to join the athlete later. Athletes must arrive at judogi control
wearing their judogi exactly as it should be to enter the tatami. Footwear is permitted at
this point.

The markings of the logo, emblem and advertising etc. must be made with a material
that does not prevent good judo practice. It is not permitted to cover up/ patch any part
of the judogi or belt with tape, stickers, or other material such as a sewn patch except
under particular circumstances agreed by the IJF Executive Committee.

Following the contest order that shall be displayed in the judogi control area, the
Education and Coaching Commission is responsible for calling the athletes to the judogi
control area. The LOC directly must provide a public announcement system for this
purpose. Athletes and their judogi shall be checked prior to each contest ensuring that
they are in accordance with the IJF judogi rules. If the judogi does not comply with the
current judogi rules the athlete will wear a reserve judogi and cannot have a coach in the
chair for that contest. The coach who accompanied the athlete to the judogi control area
is not permitted to enter the judogi control area or to the area before the athletes’ entry.

The IJF Ad Hoc Commission will decide on the consequences for an athlete who
deliberately avoids passing through judogi control and goes to the tatami.

C1.1.4 Judogi Control Verification Positions

Each athlete is obliged to have his judogi controlled before each contest. A specific zone
is provided for this purpose.
Before any control, officials must ask the athletes if they are ready to be checked. If the
athlete refuses to apply the rules, he will be excluded from the competition.

Control position 1
Athletes must be in a standing position with their arms straight down by the side of their
body with open hands as close to the body as possible.

page - 96
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Control position 2 (see picture 10)

The athletes to be checked need to be in a standing position. The arms must be
straight put in front at chest height, palms open, fingers pointed upwards. Thumbs and
forefingers of both hands should be in contact with each other to form a triangle.

If the athlete fails the judogi control he will be given a second and last chance.

C1.1.5 Judogi Control Procedure

1. Athletes’ judogi must be dry, exempt from stains, must not show any worn-out signs,
particularly on the collar and the lapel. If the condition of the judogi is assessed as
unsatisfactory, takes a reserve judogi.

2. The “IJF Approved” label (approved by the IJF - picture 1) on the jacket, the trousers,
and the belt is controlled with a UV lamp.

3. The “IJF Official Supplier” logo of the judogi manufacturer (IJF official judogi supplier
- picture 2) must appear on the jacket, the trousers and the belt. The brand of the judogi
manufacturer must be identical for the jacket and the trousers and the judogi should be
of a uniform colour. The brand of the belt can be different to that of the judogi.

4. The backnumber (picture 8) must comply with the rules and be ordered via a supplier
recognised by the IJF: www.officialbacknumber.com or www.mybacknumber.com. The
name of the athlete on the accreditation card must correspond with the name on the
backnumber (picture 8).

5. Only the national emblem can appear on the left-hand side of the jacket at chest level
(picture 5, see C1.4).

6. Control of the corresponding advertising, including the advertising reserved for the
athlete (picture 6).

7. The size of the jacket, the vertical distance between the top of the breastbone (10 cm)
and the point of intersection of the jacket lapels (25 cm, see picture 11), the length of the
skirt to cover completely the buttocks (plus 5 to 10 cm, see picture 10).

8. The internal distance between the arm and the sleeve (checked with the sokuteiki -
picture 10).

9. The length of the sleeves must completely cover the wrist bone (head of the ulna -
picture 10).

10. The length of the trousers (the malleolus must be visible and accessible to check the
length of the trousers - picture 13).

11. The size of the belt (picture 12) will be checked.

12. All protections (knee pads, elbow pads, shin guards, etc.) will be checked. The
protections cannot be composed of or have the slightest metallic or rigid element. Judogi
control is done with the protection worn by the athlete. Protections cannot be put on
after the control.

page - 97
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

13. Athletes can wear, from waist (below belt level) to knee length, underwear, or shorts.
It is forbidden to wear tights. Protective pads for the arms or legs level must be of soft
material and not be visible.

14. Long hair must be tied up out of the way and not prevent the grip of the opponent.
The nails of the feet and hands must be cut short.

In case the first judogi control is not conclusive, only one more control will be allowed.

C1.2 IJF Label

Each jacket and trousers must have an unforgeable red or green optical label (see
picture 1) which certifies that the judogi complies with the current IJF rules. For the belt,
blue, red and green labels are accepted.

The label is fixed:

• On the bottom of the jacket, front left side, near or in the reinforced edge.
• On the top front side of the trousers, close to the centre.
• At one of the two edges of the belt.

Jacket: one (1) possible location Trousers: two (2) possible locations
Only one (1) logo allowed Only one (1) logo allowed

Belt: two (2) possible locations

Picture 1 - IJF label Only one (1) logo allowed

page - 98
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

C1.3 Location of the Manufacturer’s Logo

Only one manufacturer’s logo per clothing item is allowed (jacket, trousers, and belt). It
must be a maximum of 30 cm2 on the jacket and trousers and 9 cm2 on the belt.
It should be fixed:
• On the jacket in a visible area either on the bottom, front left side, near or in the
reinforced edge or at the bottom edge and inside the advertising space (25 cm x 5
cm) permitted on the shoulders (see picture 2).

25 cm x 5 cm

Three (3) possible locations

Only one (1) logo allowed

Picture 2 - Location of the manufacturer’s logo on the jacket

• On one of the two edges of the belt, in a visible area, maximum 9 cm2 (see picture 3).

Two (2) possible locations

Only one (1) logo allowed

Picture 3 - Location of the manufacturer’s logo on the belt

page - 99
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

• On the trousers, in a visible area either at the top, at the front side or outside
(maximum 20 cm from the waist string) or at the bottom, on one of the two trouser
legs at the front side or outside, a maximum of 20 cm from the bottom of the lower
edge of the trousers (see picture 4).

Six (6) possible locations

Only one (1) logo allowed

Picture 4 - Location of the manufacturer’s logo on the trousers

C1.4 National Emblem

This must be the official identification of a nation, a National Olympic Committee (NOC)
or an IJF affiliated national federation. Mention of an institution is not allowed. No
commercial brand can be associated to it. It is fixed on the left-hand side, at the chest
level (see picture 5) with a maximum surface of 100 cm². It can also appear in the
advertising space (see picture 6).

One (1) possible location

Only one (1) emblem allowed

page - 100
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Picture 5 - Location of the national emblem on the jacket

C1.5 Advertising
Advertising reserved for national federations (see picture 6 n° 2) is authorised only on
the jacket. It must respect the practical provisions of IJF. The advertising cannot mention
political, denominational or sport organisations other than the IJF, its Continental
Unions, national federations, their organisations, and affiliated clubs. It is not authorised
to promote, in advertising spaces, tobacco, alcohol, any prohibited substance listed in
the list of products prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency, or any product, article
or service contrary to morality or good ethics. Betting companies and organisations
responsible for betting are not authorised.

On the visible part of the jacket the advertising can appear in 4 advertising spaces:
• On the sleeves, inside the surface of maximum 10 cm x 10 cm, situated at 25 cm from
the lower part of the collar.
• On the shoulders, a stripe of 25 cm x 5 cm. The stripe must be positioned from the
lower part of the collar down the sleeve.
• A maximum of 4 different publicities are permitted. Only one advertising is allowed per
space.

C1.6 Additional Advertising Reserved for the Athlete

On the judogi jacket (right-hand side lapel only) there is an advertisement space
reserved for the athlete (see picture 6 no 1). It must be a rectangle of 10 cm x 5 cm
maximum, either a vertical or horizontal orientation is allowed.

Unless there is a specific agreement with the national federation, the advertising cannot
conflict with the brand of judogi that the athlete is wearing, the sponsors of the national
federation and if the sponsor of the national federation has multi-activities, in the area
concerned by the sponsorship.

This advertising shouldn’t be an organisation that is in competition with the national

federation unless it is agreed with the national federation. It is not permitted, in the
advertising spaces, to promote tobacco, alcohol, any prohibited substances listed in
the Prohibited List of the World Anti-Doping Agency, or any product, goods or service
contrary to morality or good ethics. Betting companies and organisations responsible for
betting are not authorised.

1. Advertising reserved for the athlete

2. Advertising reserved for the national

federation

Picture 6 - Location of the advertising

page - 101
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

C1.7 Marking
The name of the athlete is permitted:
• On the bottom of the jacket (see picture 7.1)
• On the top of the trousers (see picture 7.2)
• On one of the two extremities of the belt (see picture 7.3)

The letters composing the name of the athlete should not exceed a height of 4 cm and
a length of 20 cm. No other marking will be accepted.
Jacket: two (2) possible locations Trousers: four (4) possible locations
Only one (1) text allowed Only one (1) text allowed

Picture 7 Belt: two (2) possible locations

Only one (1) text allowed

C1.8 Backnumber
Backnumbers must be ordered from the official IJF backnumber partner:
• www.officialbacknumber.com
• www.mybacknumber.com

Backnumbers may be ordered in two different sizes:

• Exclusively for the following weight categories (women’s -40 kg, -44 kg, -48 kg,
-52 kg, -57 kg, men’s -50 kg, -55 kg, -60 kg, -66 kg): 35 cm x 34 cm may be used.
• For all weight categories: 39 cm x 38 cm may be used.

The backnumbers must be clean and free from any stains or sticky residue (picture 8).

page - 102
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Each athlete is obliged to have sewn on the back of his judogi a backnumber bearing
their last (family) name and the NOC abbreviation (see picture 8). If the country does not
have a NOC then the three letter country code recognised by the IJF must be used.

The last (family) name (and any part of the athletes given (first) name) on the
backnumber must have the same letters as that registered in Judobase as this
database provides the accreditation cards, athlete name on TV graphics and scoreboard
etc. The backnumber can have a symbol on a letter, but the letters must be the same -
for example:

In Judobase Muller = backnumber Muller or Müller (letters match).

In Judobase Weiss = backnumber Weiss but NOT Weiß (letters do not match).

Senior individual Olympic champions are entitled to wear a gold backnumber and
senior individual world champions a red one. Current Olympic and world champions
mixed teams must wear gold/red nation codes on their backnumbers for the day of the
mixed teams championships. This backnumber is provided by the IJF, world champions
will receive four, and Olympic champions will receive eight. This is valid only while
the athlete/nation is the current holder of the title and must be changed to the blue
backnumber if the title is lost. One month is allowed for the athlete/nation to return to the
blue backnumber.

The backnumber should be stitched around the entire perimeter and the lower and
upper edges should be crossed to form an X or three (3) straight equidistant parallel
horizontal lines within the perimeter.

NOTE: The stitches are marked in red (see picture 8) for a better understanding of how
the sewing should be done.

The LOC will provide delegations with a sewing service. They have the right to charge
for this service. The place, time and rate (if applicable) will be communicated to
delegations on the event’s official notice boards. In case of non-respect of the place and
persons providing this service to the delegations, the LOC, in agreement with the IJF,
may refuse this service to those who were disrespectful.

For Olympic Games and other multi-sport games the sewing pattern will be specified by
the IJF Education and Coaching Commission.

The top of the backnumber must be fixed horizontally and centrally three (3) cm from the
bottom of the collar. During IJF competitions the competition sponsor labels must be
worn on the lower part.

Picture 8
page - 103
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

C1.9 Judogi Colour

The jacket and the trousers should be of a uniform colour and correspond to the
following colour references:
• White: Snow white reference.
• Blue: between Pantone number n°18- 4051TCX(TPX) and n°18-4039TCX(TPX) on
the textile Pantone scale and between n°285M and n° 286M on the print Pantone
scale.

C1.10 Judogi Size

The judogi and belt size is controlled by sokuteiki (see picture 9).

Picture 9

Jacket (see picture 10)

The “skirt” must cover the buttocks completely (plus 5 cm to 10 cm). The skirt must be of
equivalent length at the front and at the back.

The length of the judogi jacket will be measured from the front of the athlete with
sokuteiki. The length of the jacket skirt, below the belt (to be worn on the waist above
the hip bone and be tied very tightly) must measure as follows:
• All athletes -73 kg*: a minimum of 20 cm
• All athletes +73 kg*: a minimum of 25 cm

*-73 kg (-48, -52, -57, -63, -70, -60, -66, -73 kg), +73 kg (78, +78, -81, -90, -100, +100 kg)

With the arms level, the sokuteiki must slip inside entirely and smoothly inside the
sleeves. The judogi sleeves must cover up the full arm including the wrist bone (head of
the ulna). The judoka are given one chance to adjust.

Picture 10

page - 104
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The distance of the crossing points of the jacket, at belt level, must be at least 25 cm
(see picture 11). The belt should be worn just above the hip bone and be tied tightly.
• The thickness of the lapel side must be less or equal to 1 cm.
• The width of the lapel side must be 4 cm.
• The distance between the sternum top and the lapel crossing point of the jacket
vertically must be less than 10 cm.

Picture 11

Belt (see picture 12)

• The thickness must be between 4 and 5 mm.
• The tips starting from the central knot must have a length between 20 and 30 cm.
• The belt must not be made of a stiff and/or slipping material and the knot must be
correctly and tightly made.

Picture 12

page - 105
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Trousers (see picture 13)

• The distance between the bottom of the trousers and the exterior malleolus (ankle
bone) must be less or equal to 5 cm.
• The width must be between 10 and 15 cm at the knee level.

Picture 13

If the judogi is compliant an optical stamp will be made on the jacket.

C1.11 T-shirt
• White in colour (not transparent), short-sleeved and round-necked.
• Marking of the manufacturer logo, of maximum 30 cm2 is authorised. It cannot be
visible when the judogi is fastened.
• The national emblem representing the official identification of a nation, a National
Olympic Committee, or a member national federation of the IJF, of a surface area of
100 cm2 can be fixed on the chest, on the left side.
• No commercial marking can appear.

The wearing of a t-shirt for male athletes is authorised for medical reasons or to cover
a tattoo mentioning political, religious or sporting bodies or promoting tobacco, alcohol,
any prohibited substances listed in the Prohibited List of the World Anti-Doping Agency
or any product, property or service contrary to good moral and ethical customs, which
cannot be covered with an adhesive bandage or medical tape.

page - 106
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

C1.12 Reserve Judogi Supply

During the competitions organised by the IJF, the LOC will supply reserve belts, blue
and white judogi of different sizes. Judogi will be available in the “call room” so that any
change requirement could be met as quickly as possible. A closed structure for any
changing requests must be in the control zone.

The reserve judogi are provided only in the following cases:

• Torn judogi during a contest.
• Bloodstains or any other apparent stains during a contest.
• Irregular size.
• Irregular or missing backnumber.
• Inappropriate advertising.
• Inappropriate emblem.
• Unofficial brand.
• Jacket and trousers not the same brand.
• Inappropriate colour.
• Worn out judogi.
• When the name on the backnumber is different from the one on the accreditation.
• Wet judogi.
• Lost or stolen judogi (airline/train baggage claim or police report need to be provided).
• Judogi is made non-compliant for use during the competition after IJF Referee
Supervisor(s)’s decision.

The athlete must leave his accreditation card and the part(s) of their judogi that do
not comply with the rules with the organisers in exchange for the reserve judogi. The
reserve judogi must be returned immediately after the contest it was used for. If an
athlete refuses to comply with the rules, he will be excluded from the competition.

Note: The LOC cannot be blamed if an athlete cannot find a judogi with a suitable size.

C1.13 National Technical Officials’ Duties

• Check that the athlete’s identity corresponds to the backnumber and check the
sponsor’s label. The backnumber and competition sponsor label are compulsory.
• Check that the accompanying coach is in possession of an accreditation bearing the
coach symbol. For preliminary rounds a coach should wear a national tracksuit with
trousers reaching down to the shoes. They can wear national official short sleeved or
long-sleeved T-shirt and closed-toe sport shoes (no flip-flops). For the final block, they
must wear a formal suit (jacket, trousers, shirt, and tie for men; jacket, trousers/skirt/
dress, blouse for women) and formal shoes (no sport shoes or flip-flops).
• The following are forbidden at any time: shorter trousers, undressed upper body, any
kind of head caps and cover, jeans, sweaters or similar sports unrelated dress, flip-
flops. In case a doctor appears with the athlete he should have an accreditation with
the doctor’s symbol (a first aid kit box).
• Check the condition of the backnumber and sponsor label (it should not be torn off).
• Check judogi condition (should be dry, not torn or showing any blood stains).
• Check judogi colour (blue judogi should not look light blue).
• Check the judogi label and brand. The logo of the judogi manufacturer must appear
on the jacket, trousers and belt.
• Jacket and trousers should be of the same brand. The belt (cannot be red and white)
can be a different brand to that of the jacket and trousers.
• Check “IJF APPROVED” label with a UV lamp. The label should be red or green.
The belt label can be red, blue or green. Check belt ends length from central knot
(between 20 cm and 30 cm).

page - 107
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

• Check the name of the athlete on the belt (allowed on one side only), jacket and
trousers. One location allowed on each piece of competition clothing. The name of the
athlete is not compulsory.
• Check the belt position. It must be worn on the waist (above the hip bone) and be tied
very tightly.
• Athletes must be in a standing position with their arms straight down by the side of
their body with open hands as close to the body as possible.
• Check the distance between the sternum top and the lapel crossing point of the jacket
vertically. It must be less than 10 cm. The distance between the two lapels of the
jacket at belt level, needs to be of a minimum of 25 cm.
• Check length of the jacket (to cover completely the buttocks (plus 5 to 10 cm)).
• The athletes to be checked need to be in a standing position. The arms must be
straight put in front at chest height, palms open, fingers pointed upwards. Thumbs
and forefingers of both hands should be in contact with each other to form a triangle.
• Check length of the sleeves. They need to cover up the full arms completely including
the wrist bone (head of the ulna) in the defined control position (arms outstretched).
• Check with a Sokuteiki the width of the sleeves, width of lapel, and length of trousers
(the ankle bone, the malleolus, must be accessible for checking).
• If the athlete fails the judogi control he will be given a second and last chance.
• Athletes can wear any underwear or leggings below the belt. These should not
go below the knee, except if it is a separate protection made of soft material. The
protection should not appear below the judogi trousers.
• Check for athletes’ advertisements to meet requirements.
• Check national emblem (100 cm2) on left side of the jacket).
• Female athletes must and male athletes may wear a short sleeved white T-shirt
(round necked). No visible advertisement should appear when judogi is done. Only
logo of manufacturer (maximum 30 cm2) and national emblem can appear inside. No
other marking allowed.
• If an athlete presents themselves with a tattoo mentioning political, religious or
sporting bodies or promoting tobacco, alcohol, any prohibited substances listed in the
Prohibited List of the World Anti-Doping Agency or any product, property or service
contrary to good moral and ethical customs, it must be covered with an adhesive
bandage or medical tape.
• Check that male athletes are not wearing any clothing under their jacket, on upper
body. The wearing of a t-shirt for male athletes is authorised for medical reasons or to
cover a tattoo mentioning political, religious or sporting bodies or promoting tobacco,
alcohol, any prohibited substances listed in the Prohibited List of the World Anti-
Doping Agency or any product, property or service contrary to good moral and ethical
customs, which cannot be covered with an adhesive bandage or medical tape.
• Verify the length of hand and foot nails and personal hygiene of the athlete. Long hair
must be tied up with a non-metallic hair tie.
• Control any protective clothing (knee pad, elbow pad, shin pad etc.). No metallic part
or any other part made of rigid material is allowed.
• Check any wearable medical devices are not a potential source of injury for the
athlete or the athlete’s opponent.
• Ensure that the athlete is not carrying a prohibited object. This includes the holding or
wearing of any electronic devices.
• Any head covering, jewellery or body piercings must be removed.

Note: For multi-sport events (e.g., Olympic Games, Youth Olympic Games etc.) there
may be special judogi rules, and these will be published separately and sent to all
national federations.

page - 108
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

C1.14 World Champion and/or Olympic Champion Titles

Enhancement
The International Judo Federation gives the opportunity to athletes who are indiviudal
senior world and/or Olympic champions to enhance their title(s) with a marking on the
judogi jacket at the level of the country’s emblem (left side chest).

The world champion title(s) is/are enhanced by a gold star, above the national emblem.

The Olympic champion title(s) is/are enhanced by a gold circle, below the national
emblem.

C1.14.1 Procedure Regarding World Champion Title(s)

The star(s) are placed above the national emblem and must not be in contact with any
part of this emblem. There should be a space of 0.5 cm - 2 cm between each star. This
symbol must be harmoniously placed in a circular arc, around the emblem in its upper
part.

• Size: It must be in a 1.5 cm diameter circle.

• Colour: Gold.

• Positioning: One star: at the centre.

Two stars: Spaced from 1.5 cm to 2 cm beside the
centre.
Three stars: one at the centre and 2 on each side.
Maximum 5 stars per line.
More than 5 stars: superimpose them with a space
of 0.5 cm.

• Space between two stars: From 1.5 cm to 2 cm.

page - 109
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

C1.14.2 Procedure Regarding Olympic Champion Title(s)

The circle(s) are placed below the national emblem and must not be in contact with any
part of this emblem. There should be a space of 0.5 cm - 2 cm between each circle. This
symbol must be harmoniously placed, in line below the national emblem in its lower part.

• Size: 1.5 cm diameter.

• Colour: Gold.

• Positioning: One circle: at the centre.

Two circles: spaced from 1.5 cm to 2 cm beside
the centre.
Three circles: one at the centre and 2 on each
side.
• Space between the circles: From 1.5 cm to 2 cm.

Examples:

page - 110
IJF REFEREEING
RULES
All refereeing matters are the responsibility of the
IJF Referee Commission.
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

D1.1 Refereeing - Culture, History and Principles

Jujutsu is the generic term that regroups all the methods of empty hand combat that the
warriors of the Japanese Middle Ages practiced.
The fierce fights between the various schools of jujutsu contributed to the notoriety of
their masters and pupils; it was in general duels between the schools that opposed the
best practitioner of each among them.

Jigoro Kano at the end of the 19th century developed a school of jujutsu, that he
called “JUDO”, different from the other “Ryu” by its target. Like the other schools, Judo
cultivated the maximal efficiency, but the goal was not the same.

“The improvement of man and society “

Judo is a method of physical, intellectual and moral education, by the practice of a
martial art.

Judo is the only martial art derived from jujutsu where the grip of the opponent
is obligatory; this is what gave its technical wealth, finesse and intelligence. The
confrontation in jujutsu didn’t allow real fighting since the goal was to kill without being
killed oneself.

Jigoro Kano created a discipline where the confrontations allowed techniques to be

applied completely, without ever injuring the opponent.

Ippon was granted only if the fall of the opponent was controlled until they hit the
ground, or they submitted.

Apart from the elbow joint where one must leave the possibility for their adversary
to quit, all techniques are executed in the sense of articulation and never in hyper
extension.

The control of the fall direction, the impact and the speed of execution are the definition
of the perfect success of the throwing technique.

Judo is not a struggle where one accumulates advantages or points, whether standing
up or on the ground, judo is a duel with a code. The only goal is ippon; all other values
can be counted only if there is a will to score ippon.

The evolution of contests and refereeing through the years.

Of the challenges inter-schools of jujutsu without mercy, one passed, a little more than
100 years later, to be a member discipline of the International Olympic Committee.

The competition is today extremely well regulated and fully corresponds to the “Olympic
Charter” humanist, educational and social. Judo remains nevertheless a martial art
where a 100% duel must be the rule. It is the perfect technique that is rewarded with an
ippon that puts an end to the contest. Ippon corresponds to “out of contest” as at the
time of the warriors of the Middle Ages.

The refereeing must consider the philosophical aspect of the duel between the two
athletes and reward them by the correct value or the correct sanction.

page - 113
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The rewards are:

- Ippon or nearly ippon (waza-ari).

The sanctions are:

- A warning or disqualification, according to the severity, for those who put in danger
their own health or that of their opponents, those who refuse to contest, those who
stop the contest from taking place fairly, who comes out of the contest area. All actions
contrary to the spirit of judo must also be punished.

The one who wins is the one who executed “THE” best technique or for “Hansoku-make”
of the opponent (technical penalties or due to action against spirit of Judo).

Culturally and in complement, judo doesn’t reduce itself to its Olympic expression,
judo remains a martial art, judo is more than a sport, all the techniques of the Gokyo
Kodokan Classification are part of the judo heritage and must always be taught.

It is the same for the “kappo“, techniques of resuscitations and joint mobilisations
practiced about forty years ago by the judo teachers and the referees which are these
days forbidden in some countries. Their practice is not allowed but their knowledge is
part of the judo heritage and should under no circumstances be forgotten. Their practice
isn’t allowed for referees in IJF World Judo Tour competitions.

The referees are the guards of the physical, cultural and philosophical expression of
judo.

Judo must be understood to be appreciated!

Article 1 Referees and Officials

To referee at an International Judo Federation (IJF) World Judo Tour (WJT) event, and
other events as agreed by the IJF Executive Committee, a referee must hold an IJF
international licence and be active in their nation and continent. The IJF Head Referee
Director(s) will select the referees for the IJF events and other events as agreed by the
IJF Executive Committee. The selection is based on:
• The IJF referee ranking list.
• The level of the event.
• The period in which the event takes place (e.g., during or out of Olympic qualification).
• The development stage of the referee.

Generally, the contest shall be conducted by one referee of a different nationality to the
two competing athletes. For team competitions the same principle applies. In advance
of the competition, before the weight category per mat distribution, the selected referees
are allocated to a tatami. The assignment of the referees to each contest is done using
the IJF competition software. The selection is done to guarantee nation neutrality and
gives approximately the same number of assignments to be a referee on the tatami.
After following these conditions, the selection done is completely random.

The best referees from the preliminaries, on that day, are selected for the final block. At
the end of the competition each referee is given an evaluation (score). This score is then
added to the IJF referee ranking list.

page - 114
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

No one shall exercise the function of a referee during the events organised by the IJF or
Continental Union if he holds the position of national federation President, coach, doctor,
official of the national team, Referee Director and /or is responsible for the selection of
the referees and of their evaluation.

Exception: national federation Referee Director(s) can referee at cadets and juniors
Continental Cups and competitions excluding Continental Championships.

The referees shall be assisted by technical officials who will operate the timing
and scoring system and complete the competition paperwork. The local organising
committee (LOC) should provide two (2) experienced technical officials per tatami for
timing and scoring.

At each IJF WJT event there are IJF Referee Supervisor(s) whose function is to ensure
that all decisions made by the referee are correct.

The referee on the tatami has a radio communication system that is connected to the
IJF Referee Supervisor(s) on the technical table.

The Head Referee Director(s) and/or the IJF Referee Supervisor(s) who can possibly
intervene, are sitting at their reserved places with their own Computer Assisted Replay
system (CARE) system. They are connected to the referee via headphones. The
procedure is detailed in Article 13.5.

Article 2 Position and Function of the Referee

The referee should wear the IJF approved uniform without any head coverings, religious
objects, or garish jewellery.

Before officiating a contest, the referee:

• Should familiarise himself with the sound of the gong or means of indicating the end
of the contest on their tatami, with the position of the medical table and the location
of judogi control.
• Must check that his radio and headset are working.
• Has to ensure that the surface of the competition area is clean and in good condition
and there are no gaps between the tatami.
• Should ensure that there are no spectators, supporters, or photographers in a
position to cause a nuisance or a risk of injury to the athletes.
• Should ensure that all is in good order (e.g., competition area, equipment, uniforms,
hygiene, technical officials etc.) before starting the contest.
• Ensure copies of forms (Coach Suspension Form and Article 18 Direct Hansoku-
make Form) are available.
Officiating a contest, the referee:
• Shall generally stay within the contest area.
• He shall conduct the contest and administer the decisions and he shall ensure that
the decisions are correctly recorded.
• In exceptional cases (e.g., when both athletes are in ne-waza and facing outwards)
he may observe the action from the safety area.
The referee could be asked to leave the competition area during presentations or any
lengthy delay in the programme.

page - 115
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The athlete wearing the blue judogi is to the left of the referee and the athlete wearing
the white judogi is to the right of the referee.

Article 3 Role of Non-Officiating Referees

Referees who are not refereeing shall be seated at the technical table with a clear view
of their tatami, waiting for the contest assigned to them and, in any case, ready for
any eventuality that may occur during the event (e.g., he should draw the IJF Referee
Supervisor’s attention to a mistake recorded on the scoreboard).

Should an athlete have to change any part of the judogi outside the competition area or
need to temporarily leave the competition area after the contest has started for a reason
considered necessary by the central referee, giving this authorisation only in exceptional
circumstances, a referee assigned to the specific tatami who is not refereeing must go
with the athlete to see that no anomaly occurs. If the referee assigned to the specific
tatami is not of the same gender as the athlete, an official designated by the IJF Head
Referee Director(s) or IJF Referee Supervisor(s) shall accompany the athlete.

Article 4 Gestures
The referee shall make gestures as indicated below when taking the following actions:

Bow entering and Standing before the Inviting the athletes

leaving the tatami contest onto the tatami

page - 116
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Hajime and Sore-made

Ippon (complete point, marked as 10 on the scoreboard): the referee raises one
arm high above the head with the palm of the hand facing forward.

page - 117
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Waza-ari (nearly ippon, marked as 1 on the scoreboard): the referee raises one arm
sideways to shoulder height with the palm of the hand facing downwards.

The waza-ari gesture:

• Should start with the arm across the chest, then sideways to the correct finishing
position.
• Should be maintained for three (3) to five (5) seconds while moving to ensure that the
score is clearly visible to the IJF Head Referee Director(s), IJF Referee Supervisor(s)
and the timekeeper(s).

However, care should be taken when turning to keep the athletes within view.

Waza-ari-awasete-ippon (two waza-ari score ippon): first waza-ari, then the ippon
gesture.

page - 118
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Osaekomi! (Hold is on!): while bending his body towards the athletes, shall point his
arm, with the palm of the hand facing downwards. The referee must check that the
timekeeper has started the timer before stopping the gesture and returning to a normal
position to control the contest.

Toketa! (Hold broken!): while bending his body towards the athletes, shall raise one of
his arms, with the fingers of the hand straight and forward and the thumb up, to the front
and quickly wave it from right to left two or three times. He must check the timekeepers
correctly stop the time.

page - 119
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Mate! (Wait!): shall raise one of his arms to shoulder height approximately parallel to the
tatami and display the flattened palm of his hand (fingers up) to the timing and scoring
technical officials.

Sono-mama <=> Yoshi

Sono-mama! (Hold position!): shall bend forward and touch both athletes with the palms
of his hands.

Yoshi! (Continue! or Resume!): shall firmly touch both athletes with the palms of his
hands and bring pressure on them.

page - 120
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Stand up (return to the contest start position): both arms extended towards the judoka
concerned, palms upwards parallel to the tatami, the referee will move them two / three
times from bottom to top with a movement of a few centimetres. The referee must
ensure that the judoka sees the gesture clearly.

To cancel expressed opinion: to indicate the cancellation of an expressed opinion:

shall repeat with one hand the same gesture while raising the other hand above the
head to the front and wave it from right to left two or three times. There should be no
announcement made when cancelling an expressed opinion (score or penalty).

Should a rectification gesture be required, it shall be done as quickly as possible after

the cancellation gesture.

If the situation allows, the referee will signal the cancellation when the athletes can see
this gesture.

page - 121
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Not valid (throwing action without scoring for both athletes): raising one hand above the
head with the palm parallel to the head and wave it from right to left two or three times.
No announcements are to be made.

Kachi: to indicate the winner, the referee and the athletes shall return to their positions
at start of the contest; the referee take one step forward, indicate the winner raising one
hand, palm in, above shoulder height towards the winner; then take one step back to
return to the contest start position.

page - 122
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

To call the doctor: shall face the medical table, wave an arm (palm upwards) from the
direction of medical table towards the injured athlete.

To award a penalty (shido or hansoku-make): shall point towards the athlete to be

penalised with the forefinger extended from a closed fist.

Should both athletes be given a penalty, the referee should make the proper gesture
and point alternately at both athletes (left forefinger for athlete on his left and right
forefinger for athlete on his right).

page - 123
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Non-combativity: shall rotate, with a forward motion, the forearms at chest height then
point with the forefinger at the athlete to be penalised.

False attack: shall extend both arms forward, with hands closed and then make a
downward action with both hands.

page - 124
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Fix judogi: to direct the athlete(s) to re-adjust the judogi or hair: shall cross left hand
over right, palms facing inwards, at belt height or put his hand, with little finger next to
his hair, to show to athlete to fix his hair.

Penalty for not fixing judogi or hair: To award a penalty towards the athlete who
does not re-adjust their judogi correctly between the mate and the subsequent Hajime!
(Begin!): point towards the athlete (s) to be penalised with the forefinger extended from
a closed fist while announcing the penalty and then, cross left hand over right, palms
facing inwards, at belt height; same procedure should be applied for not fixing hair,
showing the appropriate gesture.

page - 125
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Penalty for stepping out

Penalty for leg grabbing

page - 126
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Penalty for a blocking Penalty for a

attitude with one hand blocking attitude
with two hands

Penalty for cross Penalty for

gripping on one side refusing kumi-kata
by covering lapel

page - 127
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Penalty for fingers inside sleeve

Penalty for not taking a grip

page - 128
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Penalty for a pistol grip

The referee must, after the official signal, point to the blue or white athlete (starting
position) to indicate which athlete scored or was penalised.

Further gestures in case of penalties will be executed in compliance with the action to
be sanctioned (see Article 18 - Prohibited Acts and Penalties).

The following gestures can be found here:

www.ijf.org/news/show/refereeing-the-new-gestures

Waza-ari and shido for landing on two hands / elbows. After awarding waza-ari to
the athlete who scored, the referee will turn towards the athlete to be sanctioned with a
movement of about 45 ° and will take a step back while he has his two arms bent at 90°
parallel to the tatami, with clenched fists; returned to normal posture then he points with
the forefinger at the athlete to be penalized with shido.

Shido for reverse seoi-nage. The referee will turn towards the athlete to be sanctioned
with a movement of about 45° and will bring both hands into clenched fists on one side
of his chest and then slightly rotate his torso as the beginning of a technique.

Shido for arranging hair. The referee will turn towards the athlete to be sanctioned
with a movement of about 45° and will bring his hand in a closed fist, the part of the little
finger in contact with the temple (same side).

To indicate to the athlete(s) that he may stand at the starting position if a lengthy delay
in the contest is envisaged, the referee should signal towards the starting position with
an open hand, palm upwards.

page - 129
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Article 5 Location (Valid Areas)

The contest shall be fought in the contest area.
All actions are valid and may continue (no mate) if either athlete has some part of their
body touching the contest area and the action started inside the contest area.
Any new technique applied when both athletes are outside the contest area shall not be
recognized.

Exceptions
a) When a throw is started with only one athlete in contact with the contest area, but
during the action both athletes move outside the contest area, the action may be
considered for point scoring purposes if the throwing action continues uninterrupted in
the proximity of the limit of the contest area and no more than two metres in the safety
area.

Similarly, any immediate counter technique by the athlete who was not in contact with
the contest area when the throwing action started inside, may be considered for point
scoring purposes if the action continues uninterrupted in the proximity of the limit of the
contest area and no more than two metres in the safety area.

b) Ne-waza action (aimed at osaekomi-waza, kansetsu-waza or shime-waza) is valid

and may continue outside of the contest area if it was started from inside.

The kansetsu-waza and shime-waza initiated inside the contest area and recognized as
being effective to the opponent can be maintained, even if the athletes are outside the
contest area, as long there is progression.

c) Ne-waza outside the contest area: if the throwing action is finished outside the
competition area in the proximity of the limit of the contest area and no more than two
metres in the safety area and immediately one of the athletes applies osaekomi-waza,
shime-waza or kansetsu-waza, this technique shall be valid as long there is progression.

If during ne-waza, outside the contest area, uke takes over the control with osaekomi-
waza, shime-waza or kansetsu-waza, in continuous succession, it shall also be valid.

d) If during ne-waza outside the contest area the athletes go out of the safety area
and the referee was unable to announce Mate!, this situation shall be dealt with, and a
decision given by the referee after consultation with the IJF Head Referee Director(s)
and/or the IJF Referee Supervisor(s).

Once the contest has started, if permission is given by the referee, the athletes can
leave the competition area.

page - 130
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Permission will be given to change a judogi or t-shirt which has become damaged or
soiled or in case of an accident for which the doctor is required. This intervention will be
done off the tatami, near the area itself or close to the medical facility; the athlete will be
accompanied by another referee (of the same gender as the athlete).

Article 6 Duration of the Contest

1. The duration of the contests and the paperwork shall be determined according to the
rules of the competition.

For all IJF competitions the time duration of the contests will be:

Senior men and women/mixed teams: 4 minutes real contest time

Junior under 21 men and momen /mixed teams: 4 minutes real contest time
Cadet under 18 men and women/mixed teams: 4 minutes real contest time

It is recommended that these times should be used by national federations for

competitions for seniors, juniors and cadets.

2. Any athlete is entitled to 10 minutes rest between contests.

Article 7 Osaekomi Time

a) Ippon: 20 seconds.
b) Waza-ari: 10 seconds or more but less than 20 seconds.

Article 8 Technique Coinciding with the Time Signal

1. Any immediate result of a technique started simultaneously with the time signal shall
be valid.

2. Although a throwing technique may be applied simultaneously with the time signal,
if the referee or the IJF Head Referee Director(s) and/or the IJF Referee Supervisor(s)
decide that it will not be effective immediately, the referee shall announce Sore-made!,
without any value for scoring purposes.

3. Any technique applied after the time signal to indicate the expiry of the time of the
contest shall not be valid, even if the referee has not yet announced Sore-made!.

4. If Osaekomi! started in regular time (not in golden score) and the remaining time
is insufficient to allow for the completion of the Osaekomi!, the time allotted for the
contest shall be extended until either ippon (or equivalence) is announced or the referee
announces Sore-made!.
During that time the athlete who receives the Osaekomi! (uke) can counterattack by
applying osaekomi-waza, shime-waza or kansetsu-waza. The time will continue until the
announcement of ippon (or equivalence), or Sore-made!.

page - 131
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Article 9 Start of the Contest

1. The referee shall always be in position to start the contest before the arrival on the
contest area of the athletes.
In individual competition the referee shall be at the tatami centre 2 m back from the line
from which the athletes start and shall be facing the technical table.

In team competitions, before the start of the contests from every encounter, it shall
proceed to the bowing ceremony between the two teams as follows:

a) The referee will remain in the same place as in the individual competitions. At his
indication, the two teams will come in on their allocated side, in line with the outer edge
of contest area, in order according to the draw of categories, and will stand face-to-face.

Each one of the three allocated referees will referee two consecutive contests. If a
contest is missing because of a lack of one/two contestants, the last referee will only
referee the remaining one or none. If there is a draw the last referee will remain on the
tatami for the golden score decision contest.

b) On the order of the referee the two (2) teams will move ahead to the starting position
on the mat.

c) The referee shall order the teams turn towards the technical table, extending his arms
in parallel forward, with open palms, and will announce rei, to be held simultaneously by
all components of both teams. The referee shall not bow.

d) Then the referee shall order, in a gesture of arms at right angles forearms up and
palms facing each other “otagai-ni” (face each other), the two teams again be face to
face, announcing “rei”(bow), to be held the same way as in the previous section.

e) After finishing the bowing ceremony, the components of the two teams will come out
through the same place which they entered, waiting, on the outer edge centred of the
contest area, the athletes of each team must make the first contest. In each contest,
they will perform the same procedure of bowing that in individual competition.

f) In case of equal wins after finishing the last contest of the match, the referee will order
the teams to proceed as described in paragraph a) and b), in order to wait for the draw
of the extra contest. Once the draw is performed the concerned athletes will remain on
the tatami for the extra golden score contest while the rest of the team will leave.

g) After finishing the last contest of the match, the referee will order the teams to
proceed as described in paragraph a) and b), announcing, then the winner. The bowing
ceremony will be held in the reverse order of the start, bowing first to each other and,
finally, to the technical table.

2. The athletes are free to bow when entering or leaving the contest area, although it is
not compulsory.

When entering the tatami area, athletes should walk to the entrance of the contest area
at the same time.

The athletes must NOT shake hands before the start of the contest.

page - 132
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

3. The athletes shall then walk to the centre of the edge of the contest area (on the
safety area) at their respective side according to the fighting order (the athlete in the
white judogi on the right side and the athlete in the blue judogi on the left side of the
referee’s position) and remain standing there.

At the signal from the referee, the athletes shall move forward to their respective starting
positions and bow simultaneously towards each other and take a step forward from the
left foot.

Once the contest is over and the referee has awarded the result, the athletes shall
simultaneously take a step back from the right foot and bow to each other.

If the athletes do not bow or do so incorrectly, the referee shall direct the athletes to do
so. It is very important to perform the bow in the correct way.

4. The contest always starts with the athletes in the standing position, wearing their
judogi correctly with the belt tied tightly above their hip bones, then the referee
announces Hajime!.

During the contest the athletes should always fix their judogi/hair quickly between
“Mate!” and “Hajime!”.

5. The accredited doctor may request that the referee stops the contest in the cases and
with the consequences regulated in Article 20.

Article 10 Transition from Tachi-waza into Ne-waza (A) and

from Ne-waza into Tachi-waza (B)
Transition from tachi-waza to ne-waza are considered valid if tori or uke makes a
real attack or a counterattack and then they attempt osaekomi-waza, shime-waza or
kansetsu-waza.

It is tachi-waza when both athletes are in a standing position and are not in any of the
following ne-waza positions (see pictures below).

Gripping under the belt in the end phase of a throwing technique is allowed if the
opponent is already in ne-waza.

If the throwing technique is interrupted, gripping under the belt is a ne-waza action.
Gripping under the belt in the end phase of a throwing technique like with soto-makikomi
continuing through ushiro-kesa-gatame or ura-gatame and similar technical actions
are allowed. The grip under the belt that becomes an essential part of the throw is not
allowed.

Athletes are still not allowed to grip under the belt to throw.

page - 133
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Ne-waza is when both athletes have two knees on the floor (picture 1).

Picture 1

If there is a loss of contact between the athletes and there is no possibility of

continuation, mate must be called (picture 2).

Picture 2

Lying on the stomach on the ground, the blue athlete is considered to be in ne-waza
(picture 3).

Picture 3

page - 134
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Grip control from the standing athlete (white), we still consider the athlete (blue) on the
knees to be in tachi-waza and consequently tachi-waza regulations would be applied
(picture 4).

However, if white does not attack immediately, then the referee must call mate! The
kneeling athlete (blue) cannot grab the legs to defend the throw with his arms, if this
happens, shido will be given.

Picture 4

In this position (picture 5) the white athlete can throw his opponent, but the attack must
be done immediately.

If the blue athlete has two elbows and two knees on the floor, the white athlete can do a
technique but ONLY to transition into ne-waza.

Picture 5

page - 135
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

In these positions (pictures 6-8) the athlete on the knees (blue) cannot grab the legs with
the hands/arms to defend the throw. If this happens, shido will be given.

Picture 6

Picture 7

page - 136
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Picture 8

A1. The athletes shall be able to change from tachi-waza to ne-waza as far as it is
done by one of the cases referred to in this Article. However, if the technique used is
not continuous, the referee shall announce mate and order both athletes to resume the
contest from the standing position.

A2. Situations that allow the transition from tachi-waza to ne-waza

a) When one of the athletes, lands on the ground and there is no score or waza-ari is
given, either athlete can, without interruption, take the offensive and continue in ne-
waza.

Example: in these positions below, tori, after applying a real attack, can continue into
ne-waza.

page - 137
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Example: in these positions below, tori, can apply a throwing technique and can
continue with kansetsu-waza, shime-waza or osaekomi-waza (not shown) after a real
attack or a counterattack.

b) In any other case where one athlete falls down or is about to fall down, not covered
by the preceding sub-sections of this article, the other athlete may take advantage of his
opponent’s unbalanced position to go into ne-waza.

A2. Exceptions
When one athlete pulls his opponent down into ne-waza not in accordance with the
above rules and his opponent does not take advantage of this to continue into ne-waza,
the referee shall announce mate, and penalise with shido the athlete who has infringed
Article 18. If instead, the opponent takes advantage of the action of tori, the ne-waza
work may continue.

B1. The athletes shall be able to make a transition from ne-waza to tachi-waza if the
situation is not dangerous for both athletes with or without grips and both are more or
less face to face.

However, if the transition is not continuous, the referee shall announce mate and order
both athletes to resume the contest from the standing position.

The kata-sankaku grip (gripping with both arms the neck and one shoulder of the
opponent) in ne-waza action is allowed (picture 1).

If the kata-sankaku grip is used starting from ne-waza going to tachi-waza, or in tachi-
waza directly, mate will be immediately called (picture 2).

A kata-sankaku grip in tachi-waza with a throwing action will be considered hansoku-

make (picture 3).

Kata-sankaku grip in ne-waza with blocking the opponent’s body with the legs is
hansoku-make (picture 4).

1 2 3 4
page - 138
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Article 11 Application of Mate

1. General
The referee shall announce Mate! (Wait!) to stop the contest temporarily in the situations
covered by this article. To recommence the contest, the referee shall announce Hajime!
(Begin!).

The athletes must quickly return after mate to their starting positions in the following
cases:
• The referee will give shido for stepping outside.
• The referee will give a third (3rd) shido - hansoku-make.
• The referee will ask the athletes to adjust their judogi.
• The referee is of the opinion that an athlete(s) requires medical attention.
• The referee is of the opinion that there is a risk of danger to the athletes.

The referee having announced mate, must take care to maintain the athletes within his
view in case they did not hear the announcement and continue fighting or if any other
incident arises.

2. Situations where the referee shall announce mate:

a) When both athletes go completely outside the contest area without continuous action
that started from inside the contest area.

b) When one or both of the athletes perform one of the prohibited acts listed in Article 18
of these rules.

c) When one or both of the athletes are injured or taken ill. Should any of the situations
of Article 20 occur, the referee, after announcing Mate!, shall call the doctor to perform
the necessary medical attention according to said article, either upon the request of
the athlete, or directly depending on the seriousness of the injury. In cases of “minor”
injury, the medical intervention will be carried out outside the contest area, near the area
itself or close to the medical facility; the athlete will be accompanied by a non-officiating
referee assigned to the specific tatami.

d) When it is necessary for one or both of the athletes to adjust their judogi.

e) When during ne-waza there is no evident progress.

f) When one athlete regains a standing or semi-standing position from ne-waza bearing
his opponent on his back, with the hands completely clear of the tatami and without his
opponent being able to progress the action.

g) When one athlete in, or from ne-waza regains a standing position and lifts the
opponent, who is lying on their back with one (1) or both legs around any part of the
standing athlete, clear of the tatami.

h) When an athlete performs or attempts to perform kansetsu-waza or shime-waza from

the standing position.

i) When one of the athletes starts or perform any preparatory moves of a kind of fighting
or wrestling technique (not genuine judo) the referee shall call immediately mate, trying
to stop and not to let the athlete who performs, finishes the action.

page - 139
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

j) When tori applies osaekomi-waza, shime-waza or kansetsu-waza by stretching uke’s

leg in ne-waza. Mate must be called immediately and a shido given.

k) When the athletes, in tachi-waza, reach the 2 m mark in the safety area.

l) When in any other case that the referee deems it necessary to do so.

3. Situations where the referee shall not announce Mate!:

a) To stop the athlete(s) going outside the contest area in the proximity of the limit of the
contest area and no more than two metres unless the situation is considered dangerous.

b) When there is a throwing that started inside the contest area and both athletes
continue to go outside as part of the action in the proximity of the limit of the contest
area and no more than two metres.

c) When an athlete, who has escaped from osaekomi-waza, shime-waza or kansetsu-

waza, appears in need of or calls for a rest.

These are valid actions and mate should not be called.

page - 140
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Mate! should not be given as the action started in the valid area.

Article 12 Sono-mama
1. Sono-mama! (Hold positions!) can only be applied in situations where athletes are
working in ne-waza.

2. In any case where the referee wishes to temporarily stop the contest without causing
a change in their positions, he shall announce Sono-mama!, making the gesture under
Article 4.7 while he must ensure that there is no change in the position or grip of either
athlete.

3. To recommence the contest, the referee shall announce Yoshi! (Continue!) making
the gesture under Article 4.

Article 13 End of the Contest

1. In regular time (4 minutes), a contest can be won by:
• A technical score or scores (waza-ari or ippon)
• Direct hansoku-make
• Indirect hansoku-make
• Fusen-gachi
• Kiken gachi

A penalty never corresponds to a score.

The referee shall announce Sore-made! (Finished!) to indicate the end of contest in the
cases covered in this article.

After this announcement the referee shall always keep the athletes within his view in
case they do not hear his announcement and continue fighting. The referee shall direct
the athletes to adjust their judogi, if necessary, prior to indicating the result.

page - 141
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

After the referee has indicated the result of the contest making the gesture under Article
4, the athletes shall take one step backwards, make the bow and leave the contest area
by the sides of the mat, particularly around the safety area.

When the athletes are leaving the mat, they must be wearing their judogi in the proper
way and must not remove any part of the judogi or the belt before leaving the field of
play.

Should the referee award the victory to the wrong athlete in error, the IJF Head
Referee Director(s) and/or IJF Referee Supervisor(s) must ensure that he changes this
erroneous decision before the referee leaves the competition area.

All actions and decisions taken by the referee and agreed by the the IJF Head Referee
Director(s) and/or IJF Referee Supervisor(s) shall be final and without appeal.

The the IJF Head Referee Director(s) and/or IJF Referee Supervisor(s) are responsible
for all rules and decisions during the contest. In exceptional circumstances the decision
will be made by the IJF Head Referee Director(s) and the IJF Ad Hoc Commission. The
IJF Ad Hoc should be composed of one (1) representative from Refereeing, one (1) from
Sport and one (1) from Education and Coaching. If possible, composition of the Ad Hoc
Commission should include one (1) IJF elected official.

2. Situations of Sore-made!:
a) When one athlete scores ippon or waza-ari-awasete-ippon (Articles 15 and 16).

b) In the case of hansoku-make (Article 18).

c) In the case of kiken-gachi (Articles 19 and 20).

d) When the time allotted for the contest has expired.

e) Waza-ari score from an action in golden score.

f) Waza-ari or ippon score in golden score.

3. The referee shall award the contest as follows:

a) When one athlete has scored ippon or equivalent, he shall be declared the winner.

b) When both athletes have no technical score, or the technical scores are equal at the
end of the regular contest time, the contest shall continue in golden score regardless of
the number of shido given.

c) In the case where both athletes have no score or both have waza-ari and then score
ippon simultaneously during the time allotted for regular time, the contest shall be
decided by a “golden score” period.

d) In the case where one athlete has waza-ari and then both score ippon simultaneously
during the time allotted for regular time, the contest shall be allowed to continue until the
end.

page - 142
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

4. Golden score period

In individual and team competitions when contest time ends with the circumstances of
paragraph 3b. of this article, the referee shall announce “Sore-made!” to end the contest
temporarily and the athletes shall return to their starting positions.

The referee shall announce “Hajime!” to restart the contest once the scoreboard is
ready. There shall be no rest period between the end of the original contest and the start
of golden score.

There is no time limit for golden score. Any existing score(s) and/or numbers of shido
from regular time are carried into the golden score period and will remain on the score
board.

Golden score can be won by a technical score (waza-ari or ippon), hansoku-make

(direct or by accumulative shido) or kiken-gachi. If a direct hansoku-make is given, the
consequences are the same as those in regular time.

The referee will then announce Sore-made!.

Special situations during golden score.

a) Should only one athlete exercise his right to participate in the “golden score” period,
and the other athlete declines, the athlete who wishes to compete shall be declared the
winner by “kiken-gachi”.

b) In the case where both athletes score ippon simultaneously the referee shall
announce mate, continuing the contest without considering these actions for scoring
purposes.

c) For direct hansoku-make given to both athletes, the IJF Ad Hoc Commission will
decide.

d) Osaekomi starting in golden score

If osaekomi starts in golden score, after 10 seconds of osaekomi, tori will be awarded
waza-ari (or waza-ari-awasete-ippon if he already has a waza-ari) and the contest will
end. The referee shall announce “waza-ari!, sore-made!” or “waza-ari-awasete-ippon!,
sore made!”.

5. CARE system
The IJF Head Referee Director(s) and IJF Referee Supervisor(s) are responsible for all
rules and decisions during the contest.

IJF Referee Supervisor(s) with the collaboration of the IJF Head Referee Director(s)
must intervene in any circumstance in which an evaluation or a procedure made by the
referee is not in harmony with the IJF refereeing rules.

The intervention must be immediate without loss of time or hesitation. If the IJF Head
Referee Director(s) and/or the IJF Referee Supervisor(s) agree the decision is validated
or corrected.

If the situation is not clear and there is no agreement between the IJF Head Referee
Director(s) and IJF Referee Supervisor(s), no intervention is carried out (Hajime!).

page - 143
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Viewing of the CARE system and subsequent communication with the referees as
regulated in this article shall be up to the discretion of the IJF Referee Director(s) and/or
the IJF Referee Supervisor(s) that oversee the mat.

Mandatory reviewing using the CARE system in support of the decision on the mat will
be done. There must be evidence to support any decision changes.

1. Any decision involving the end of the contest, during the contest time as well as in the
period of “golden score”.

2. In a kaeshi-waza situation: the athlete receiving the attack and starting the
counterattack, CANNOT use the impact of landing on the tatami to finish his kaeshi-
waza action and have it evaluated. If the action allows it, he can however continue in
ne-waza:
• If the two athletes land together without clear control for either one, no score will be
given.
• Any action after landing will be considered as a ne-waza action.

No score for counter techniques where the initial attack is rolled to the back, towards
the counterattacking or defending judoka. There has to be a difference between the
correctly applied counter-technique and falling on the mat turning/rolling over the
opponent. In the case of correct technique like uchi-mata-gaeshi, harai-goshi-gaeshi
or hane-goshi-gaeshi, but also uchi-mata-sukashi, ura-nage, yoko-guruma, tani-otoshi,
ko-soto-gari and ko-soto-gake, if we can identify the technique with a proper 90° landing
there will be a score. In the case of a front landing or one less than 90°, the rolling to the
back will be considered as transition to ne-waza.

There shall be no unauthorised use or request of use of the CARE system other than by
the referee, the IJF Head Referee Director(s) and/or the IJF Referee Supervisor(s).

A coach can apply to the IJF Head Referee Director(s)/the IJF Referee Supervisor(s) to
review a technical situation of the contest in which his judoka was engaged, by filling in
the appropriate form available in the judogi control room. The action can be seen in the
break between the preliminaries and the final block or after the final block.

For non-IJF events where there is no CARE system available, two (2) side judges can
be used and a majority of three rule applied.

Article 14 Ippon
Scoring for actions that, without stopping, are a continuation of judo techniques. If
there is a stop in the action, there is no score. Continuity, it is important that there is no
interruption during the execution of direct throwing techniques, counter techniques, or
combinations.

Evaluation of the points in tachi-waza.

The four criteria for ippon are speed, force, on the back and skilfully controlled until the
end of the landing. Looking at the line from the shoulders to the hips. Just the shoulders
must be at an angle that is a minimum of 90° to the tatami to consider that there is a
score, landing on the shoulder and upper back is considered a score.
1. Ippon will be given when the athlete throws his opponent on the back, applying a
technique or countering his opponent’s attacking technique, with considerable ability
with maximum efficiency (*).

page - 144
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

A judo technique which is present in the Kodokan judo classified techniques including
recognised variations (version 01 April 2017) must be identified. Just landing and rolling
over and falling on the side/back in the process of the contest, without applying a clear
technique, is not enough to score.

* “ikioi” = momentum with both force and speed and “hazumi” = skilfulness with impetus,
sharpness or rhythm.

Rolling can be considered ippon only if there is no break during landing. The difference
of the rolling makes the evaluation of the points. It is Ippon! when uke rolls on his back.

2. All situations in which one of the athletes voluntarily makes a “bridge” (head and one
foot or both feet in contact with the tatami) after having been thrown will be considered
ippon.

This decision is taken for the safety of the athletes, so they do not try to escape from
the technique and endanger their cervical spine. Also, an attempt of a voluntarily bridge
(arching the body) should be counted as a “bridge”.

No score or penalty will be given if the landing of uke occurs on the body of tori, in such
a way that not all parts of uke’s body involving the bridge situation (head, foot or feet)
touch the tatami.

Ippon evaluation in ne-waza

a) When an athlete holds with osaekomi-waza the other athlete, who is unable to get
away for 20 seconds after the announcement of Osaekomi!.

b) When an athlete gives up by tapping twice (2) or more with his hand or foot or says
Maitta! (I give up!) generally because of osaekomi-waza, shime-waza or kansetsu-waza.

c) When an athlete loses consciousness due to osaekomi-waza, shime-waza or

kansetsu-waza.

page - 145
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Should one athlete be penalised with hansoku-make, the other athlete shall immediately
be declared the winner with a score equivalent to ippon.

Special situations
a) Simultaneous techniques - when both athletes fall to the tatami after what appears
to be simultaneous attacks and the referees cannot decide which technique dominated
there should be no score awarded.

b) In the case where both athletes score simultaneous ippon the referee will act as
regulated in article 13 paragraph 4.b.

Article 15 Waza-ari
Scoring for actions that, without stopping, are a continuation of techniques. If there is a
stop in the action, there is no score.

Evaluation of the points in tachi-waza. The referee shall announce waza-ari (a near
ippon) when in his opinion the applied technique corresponds to the following criteria:

• Landing on the whole side of the body at 90 degrees or more to the rear of the
shoulder axis
• One shoulder and upper back and landing simultaneously on two (2) elbows, two (2)
hands or one (1) elbow and one (1) hand.
• A score will be given for a whole side of the body landing even when the elbow is out.
Only the shoulder position must be considered. Everything that is out of this range
won’t get a score.
• When the four ippon criteria are not fully achieved.

These landings below are considered to be waza-ari.

These landings are given waza-ari for tori and shido for uke. In a golden score situation
only waza-ari will be given by the referee.

• Landing only on one elbow cannot be used for assessment.

• Landing on the side of the upper body should be evaluated with waza-ari.
• Landing on one elbow, on the bottom or the knee with immediately continuation on
the back will be waza-ari.
• Landing on the upper part of the shoulder should be evaluated with waza-ari.

page - 146
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

These landings below are not considered to be waza-ari.

Evaluation of the points in osaekomi-waza.

a) When an athlete holds with osaekomi-waza the other athlete who is unable to get
away for 10 seconds or more, but less than 20 seconds.

Article 16 Waza-ari-awasete-ippon
Should one athlete gain a second waza-ari in the contest, the referee shall announce
waza-ari-awasete-ippon (two waza-ari score ippon).

Article 17 Osaekomi-waza
The referee shall announce Osaekomi! for an applied technique when the athlete being
held:
• Is controlled from the side, rear or on top by his opponent and
• Has his full back or complete upper back (scapular region) in contact with the tatami.

The athlete applying the hold must not have his body or his leg(s) controlled by his
opponent’s legs either from above or from below the leg.

If the last situation happens after that the referee has announced Osaekomi! he shall
announce Toketa!

page - 147
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The athlete applying the osaekomi-waza must have his body on and over the
opponent’s body covering it and holding the opponent down underneath his body.

He must apply pressure onto the opponent’s front upper body with his front upper body
in either the kesa, the shiho or ura position, i.e., similar to the techniques kesa-kami-
shiho-ura-gatame and sankaku situations.

Should an athlete who is controlling his opponent with an osaekomi-waza, change

without losing control, into another osaekomi-waza, the Osaekomi! time will continue
until the announcement of ippon (or equivalence), Toketa! or Mate!.

When Osaekomi-waza is being applied and tori commits an infringement meriting a

penalty (shido) the referee shall announce Mate!, return the athletes to their standing
positions and:
• If the Osaekomi! time is less than 10 seconds, award the penalty then recommence
the contest by announcing Hajime!;
• If the Osaekomi! time is 10 seconds or more, but less than 20 seconds, award the
penalty and the score (waza-ari);

then recommence the contest by announcing Hajime!.

When Osaekomi! is being applied and uke commits an infringement meriting a penalty,
the referee shall award the penalty by directly pointing at the uke without interrupting the
contest with Sono-mama!.

When the situation permits and in order not to interrupt the positive action of tori, the
referee will award directly the penalty pointing uke without interrupting the contest with
Sono-mama!.

However, should the penalty to be awarded be hansoku-make for tori or uke, the referee
shall, after announcing Sono-mama!, consult with the IJF Referee Director(s) and/or
the IJF Referee Supervisor(s), announce mate to return the athletes to their starting
positions, then award hansoku-make and end the contest by announcing Sore-made!.

If an Osaekomi! exists, but the referee has not announced osaekomi, the IJF Referee
Director(s) and/or the IJF Referee Supervisor(s) must inform the referee, who shall
announce Osaekomi! immediately.

page - 148
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The IJF Referee Director(s) and/or the IJF Referee Supervisor(s), having consulted the
CARE system, can quantify the exact time of the Osaekomi and communicate it to the
Referee for the relative decision.

The referee, after the announcement Osaekomi! must not announce Toketa! in the
presence of situations in which, for example, the back of the athlete being held is no
longer in contact with the tatami, (e.g., “bridging”), but the athlete applying the hold
maintains the initial control anyway.

If uke escapes from osaekomi-waza outside the contest area in the proximity of the limit
of the contest area and no more than two metres:
• The referee must call Mate! if there is NO immediate continuation from either tori
or uke in applying osaekomi-waza, shime-waza or kansetsu-waza and, if the case,
assign the relevant osaekomi-waza score.
• The referee must call Toketa! if there is an immediate continuation from either tori
or uke in applying osaekomi-waza, shime-waza or kansetsu-waza, and, if the case,
assign the relevant osaekomi score, leaving this last action to continue.
• If the osaekomi-waza action outside the contest area goes beyond the limit of the
safety area the referee must call Ippon! Sore-Made!

This kind of osaekomi-waza is not valid and the referee must call Mate! if there is no
progression in the action.

This kind of osaekomi-waza is not valid and the referee must call Mate! immediately.

It is never allowed to hold an osaekomi-waza just around the head/neck without control
of at least one arm. Control in ne-waza using arms around the neck, without opponent’s
arm inside will be considered as Mate! Control in ne-waza using legs around the neck,
without opponent’s arm inside will be considered as Mate! and Shido!.

page - 149
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Article 18 Prohibited Acts and Penalties

The prohibited acts are divided into infringements that receive the penalty of:
• Shido – two (2) shido can be awarded and the third will be hansoku-make. The
athlete is disqualified and can continue in the competition, if applicable.
• Hansoku-make - the athlete is disqualified and can continue in the competition, if
applicable.
• Hansoku-make - the athlete is disqualified and cannot continue in the competition.

A contest cannot be decided by single or accumulated shido, until hansoku-make is

reached.

Referees are authorised to award penalties according to the “intention” or situation and
in the best interest of the sport.

Should the referee decide to penalise the athlete(s), (except in the case of Sono-mama!
in ne-waza) he shall temporarily stop the contest by announcing mate, should return the
athletes to their starting positions (Article 11) and announce the penalty while pointing to
the athlete(s) who committed the prohibited act.

Article 18.1 Shido (Slight Infringements Group)

During the contest an athlete can receive a shido for a lack of combativity, an illegal
move or action that is not considered dangerous, untidy attire or hair.

Two shido will be given as warnings and the third will be hansoku-make, the athlete is
disqualified and can continue in the competition, if applicable.
Shido do not give a score to the other athlete, only technical scores can give points on
the scoreboard.

When both athletes infringe the rules at the same time, each should be awarded a
penalty according to the seriousness of the infringement.

When both athletes have been given two (2) shido and subsequently each receives a
further penalty, they should both be given hansoku-make.

Shido infringements can be evaluated as hansoku-make if done in an obvious anti-

sporting manner that is not fair play (e.g., if one athlete stamps on the foot of his
opponent to throw him more than once, or just to block like crossing fingers to avoid
the grip or uke, in an osaekomi situation, puts his hand forcefully on the face of tori to
escape).

A penalty in ne-waza should be applied in the same manner as in Article 17 Osaekomi.

If an athlete (blue) commits a slight infringement and his opponent (white with no score)
throws him for waza-ari, white will be given waza-ari and blue a shido.

If an athlete (blue) commits a slight infringement and his opponent (white with no score)
throws him for ippon, white will be given ippon and the contest ended.

If an athlete (blue) commits a slight infringement and his opponent (white with a waza-ari
score) throws him for waza-ari or ippon, white will be given ippon and the contest ended.

page - 150
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

If an athlete (blue) commits a slight infringement and throws his opponent (white)
the referee will allow the ne-waza until white has the advantage. The referee must
announce Matte! to give the penalty to blue in the moment that blue takes the advantage
in ne-waza (e.g., to break the osaekomi-waza and takes over the control, to break
the osaekomi-waza by applying shime-waza or kansetsu-waza, waza-ari for throw
two elbows or two hands, or one elbow and one hand and continuation in ne-waza); it
doesn’t matter if it is the first, the second or the third shido.

Whenever a referee awards a penalty, he should demonstrate with a simple gesture the
reason for the penalty.

A penalty can be awarded after the announcement of Sore-made! for any prohibited
act done during the time allotted for the contest or, in some exceptional situations, for
serious acts done after the signal to end the contest. In this case the referee will apply
the penalty in accordance with the IJF Head Referee Director(s) and/or IJF Referee
Supervisor(s).

Article 18.1.1 Shido for a Lack of Combativity

1. Negative positions, against the fighting spirit, will be penalised by shido (to adopt in a
standing position, after kumi-kata, an excessively defensive posture, not searching for
an attack, a defensive attitude etc.).

2. To make an action designed to give the impression of an attack but which clearly
shows that there was no intent to throw the opponent (false attack). False attacks are
defined as:
• Tori has no intention of throwing.
• Tori attacks without kumi-kata or immediately releases the kumi-kata.

Tori makes a single fake attack or several repeated fake attacks with no breaking of
uke’s balance.

Tori puts a leg in between uke’s legs to block the possibility of an attack.

3. Unless in accordance with Article 10, to pull the opponent down to start ne-waza and
the latter does not take advantage of this to continue into ne-waza, the referee shall
announce Mate! and give shido to the athlete who has infringed Article 10.

4. In a standing position, after the referee announced Hajime! and before or after kumi-
kata has been established, not to make any attacking moves. Recognizing the difficulty
of preparing a throwing action, the time between kumi-kata and making an attack is
45 seconds if there is a positive progression. The referees should penalize strictly
the athlete who does not engage in kumi-kata or who tries not to be gripped by the
opponent.

5. Without there being an attack engaged in a valid position (see Article 5 - Exceptions):
• In tachi-waza to go intentionally or intentionally force the opponent to go outside the
contest area;
• In ne-waza to go deliberately outside the contest area.

page - 151
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

If an athlete puts one foot outside of the contest area without immediate attack or not
returning immediately inside the contest area, he is penalised by shido. Two feet outside
the contest area is penalized immediately by shido.

Article 18.1.2 - Shido for an Illegal Move

6. To put a hand, arm, foot, or leg directly on the opponent’s face. The face means the
area within the line bordered by the forehead, the front of the ears and the jawline.

7. To intentionally avoid taking kumi-kata to prevent action in the contest. Normal kumi-
kata is taking hold the right side of the opponent’s judogi, be it the sleeve, collar, chest
area, top of the shoulder or back with the left hand and with the right hand the left side
of the opponent’s judogi be it the sleeve, collar, chest area, top of the shoulder, or back
and always above the belt or vice versa.

To offer more chances to throw and more attractive judo, non-classical grips are
allowed. Collar and lapel, one side, cross grip, belt grip, pocket and pistol grips are
allowed when the attitude of the athlete is positive, when they are looking to perform
positive attacks and throws. If taken, time will be allowed for the preparation of an
attack. The same grip (or a collar and lapel grip) used to force the opponent with either
one or both arms, to take a bending position, used in a defensive, negative, or blocking
attitude, will be penalised by shido.

page - 152
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

8. To grab below the belt.

Exception: Gripping under the belt in the end phase of a throwing technique is allowed
if the opponent is already in ne-waza. If the throwing technique is interrupted, gripping
under the belt is a ne-waza action.

9. Ducking beneath the opponent’s arm without an immediate attack will be penalised
with shido.

10. Hooking one leg between the opponent’s legs unless immediately attacking with a
throwing technique.

11. In a standing position, to continually hold the opponent’s sleeve end(s) for a
defensive purpose or to grasp by “screwing up” the sleeve end(s).

12. In a standing position, to continually keep the opponent’s fingers of one or both
hands interlocked, to prevent action in the contest or to take the wrist or the hands of the
opponent only to avoid the grip or the attack on him.

13. To insert a finger or fingers inside the opponent’s sleeve or of his trousers either in
the ends of the trouser legs or in the waistband (top) of the trousers.

page - 153
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

14. To bend back the opponent’s finger(s) to break his grip.

15. Breaking the grips with one or two hands and immediately taking grips is allowed.
Breaking grips with one or two hands and not taking a grip immediately is shido.
Breaking the grip, if after that a grip is still there, is allowed. For example, if the athlete in
the blue judogi has one grip and the athlete in the white judogi decides to break with one
or two hands, white should keep at least one grip in their hand. So, if blue has one grip,
after breaking, white shall keep at least one grip. If after breaking the grip, white does
not have any grip anymore, it is shido.

16. To break the grip of the opponent with the knee or leg.

17. Cover the upper part of the lapel of the judogi jacket to prevent the grip.

18. Avoid uke’s grip with a blow on his arm or hand.

page - 154
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

19. Blocking the opponent’s hand.

20. Leg grabbing, grabbing the trousers, blocking, or pushing the opponent’s leg(s) with
their hands or arms. It is possible to grip the leg only when the two opponents are in a
clear ne-waza position and the tachi-waza action has stopped.

These are valid actions and no shido will be given.

Tori in this tachi-shisei position can apply kansetsu-waza or shime-waza because uke is
in a ne-waza position.

page - 155
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

21. To encircle the end of the belt or jacket around any part of the opponent’s body. The
act of “encircling” means that the belt or jacket must completely encircle. Using the belt
or jacket as an anchor for a grip (without encircling), e.g., to trap the opponent’s arm,
should not be penalised.

22. To take the judogi in the mouth (either his own or his opponent’s judogi).

23. To put a foot or a leg in the opponent’s belt, collar or lapel.

24. To apply shime-waza using either your own or your opponent’s belt or bottom of the
jacket or using only the fingers.

25. In osaekomi-waza, shime-waza or kansetsu-waza, over-stretching the leg is

forbidden and the referee will announce mate immediately and sanction the athlete with
shido.

page - 156
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Special attention will be given to situations: where tori, whilst applying a shime-waza,
also over-stretches and straightens uke’s leg. Mate must be called immediately and a
shido given.

26. To directly hug the opponent for a throw (bear hug).

Precision: A bear hug is a two-handed simultaneous grip “hugging” the other athlete.

Kumikata: To attack with a bear hug the athlete must have a minimum of one grip before
making the attack.

It is not valid to grip simultaneously. Only touching the opponent’s judogi, hands or body
is not considered to be kumi-kata, gripping is necessary.

These are valid grips for bear hug.

27. In shime-waza (ryote-jime with tori and uke face to face, hadaka-jime with tori on the
back of uke or sankaku situation gripping the head with the legs just around the neck)
using the legs to assist the grips around the opponent’s head without any arm of the
opponent is matte! and shido!

28. To kick with the knee or foot, the hand or arm of the opponent, in order to make him
release his grip or to kick the opponent’s leg or ankle without applying any technique.

29. Applying kansetsu-waza or shime-waza in tachi-shisei without a judo throwing

technique will be penalised with shido. See also Article 18.2.2 Hansoku-make for Acts
against the Spirit of Judo point 3.

page - 157
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

30. The act of entangling the leg without making an immediate attack must be penalised
with shido.

31. No score and shido for reverse seoi-nage. The application of seoi-nage techniques
when uke can perform ukemi and tori can control is allowed. In the variation of seoi-
nage techniques when tori turns away from uke, twisting their tsurite and hikite using
the same lapel of uke’s judogi, without controlling uke, standing or dropping down in an
unknown direction, without giving the possibility to the opponent to perform ukemi and
sometimes with uke falling with the neck on the mat, is forbidden.

Article 18.1.3 Shido for Untidy Attire or Hair

No athlete should use the tidying or rearranging of judogi/hair to get time with which to
interrupt the contest. The correct preparation of the judogi jacket, trousers, belt and belt
hair is the responsibility of the athlete. Athletes must enter and leave the field of play
wearing their judogi and hair in the proper way.

32. If the judogi jacket, trousers and/or belt becomes undone during the contest the
athlete is obliged to quickly fix it back to the correct position. This can be between Mate!
and Hajime! or during any break in action. An athlete failing to do this will be given a
penalty (shido or hansoku-make if it is the third penalty).

A penalty will be given (shido or hansoku-make if it is the third penalty) to an athlete who
unties their trousers and/or without permission from the referee.

To intentionally disarrange his own or his opponent’s judogi; to untie or retie the belt
or the trousers without the referee’s permission; to intentionally lose time arranging his
judogi and belt.

page - 158
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The referee should never touch an athlete’s judogi or belt; this can happen in
exceptional cases (e.g., Yoshi!) and to safeguard the safety of the athletes (e.g., in
ne-waza to free the athlete’s head from the judogi which prevents the evaluation of his
physical state).

33. Retying hair is allowed once per athlete per contest. Further occasions are penalised
with shido (or hansoku-make if it is the third penalty).

Article 18.2 Hansoku-make (Grave Infringements Group)

Hansoku-make can be indirect from an accumulation of shido penalties (see Article
18.1) or direct which is an immediate disqualification. In either case, the opponent wins
the contest by ippon.

If a direct hansoku-make is given, depending on the infringement, an athlete may or may

not be allowed to continue in the competition, if applicable.

Before awarding hansoku-make, the referee must consult with the IJF Head Referee
Director(s) and/or the IJF Referee Supervisor(s).

When there is a hansku-make given the referee must follow the IJF procedure by
completing the Direct Hansoku-make form to inform the IJF Head Referee Director(s)
and/or the IJF Referee Supervisor(s) who will then inform the person running the
competition.

Article 18.2.1 Hansoku-make for Dangerous Techniques

If this type of hansoku-make is awarded the athlete can continue in the competition.

Techniques using head diving are dangerous and will be penalised with hansoku-make.

1. To “dive” headfirst, onto the tatami by bending forward and downward while
performing or attempting to perform techniques such as uchi-mata, harai-goshi, seoi-
nage, tai-otoshi, kata-guruma, tsuri-goshi, ura-nage etc. it is forbidden to somersault
forward when uke is on the shoulders or the back of tori. Tori can continue in the
competition.

2. Head defence as uke, to ensure that judo has as little trauma as possible, if uke
attempts voluntarily to use the head with any movement which is dangerous for the
head, neck or spine, for defence and to avoid landing in/escaping from a score he shall
be penalised with hansoku-make. Uke can continue in the competition.

page - 159
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Special attention will be given to situations where tori attempts to throw his opponent
during tachi-waza with, for example, seoi-otoshi, seoi-nage, sode-tsurikomi-goshi with
the grip on both sleeves and koshi-guruma with both grips on the collar and uke makes
an involuntary head defence.

These are examples and this situation can occur with other throwing techniques. In this
situation there is no penalty for either tori or uke.

Article 18.2.2 Hansoku-make for Acts against the Spirit of Judo

If this type of hansoku-make is awarded the athlete cannot continue in the competition
and will remain in the position they reached on the draw sheet (if this in the quarterfinal
the position is 7th place). In a round robin any remaining contest(s) will be a win by
ippon for the opponent.

1. To apply kawazu-gake (to throw the opponent by winding one leg around the
opponent’s leg, while facing more or less in the same direction as the opponent and
falling backwards into him).

Even if the thrower twists/turns during the throwing action, this should still be considered
“kawazu-gake” and be penalised. Techniques such as o-soto-gari, o-uchi-gari, and uchi-
mata where the foot/leg is entwined with opponent’s leg will be permitted and should be
scored.

page - 160
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

2. To apply kani-basami.

3. To apply do-jime.

4. To apply ashi-garami.

5. To fall directly to the tatami while applying or attempting to apply techniques such as
ude-hishigi-waki-gatame (see point 3 above).

6. Applying kansetsu-waza or shime-waza in tachi-shisei with a judo throwing technique

with be penalised with hansoku-make. See also Article 18.1.2 - Shido for an Illegal Move
point 29.

7. Uke, when behind tori, cannot reap tori’s standing leg or legs from the inside.

8. To make any action this may endanger or injure the opponent especially the
opponent’s neck or spinal vertebrae.

9. Intentionally fall backwards when the other athlete is clinging to his back and when
either athlete has control of the other’s movement.

10. To lift the opponent off the tatami and forcefully push him back onto the tatami
without a judo technique.

11. To disregard the referee’s instructions.

12. To make unnecessary calls, remarks, or gestures derogatory to the opponent or

referee during the contest.

13. To wear or to have inside the judogi a hard or metallic object (covered or not).

14. Any action against the spirit of judo (this includes anything that can be described as
anti-judo, for example being in the lead and, in the last seconds of the match, leaving
the competition area to prevent the opponent from taking grips) may be punished by a
direct hansoku-make at any time in the contest.

Article 18.3 Double Hansoku-make

If both athletes are given a hansoku-make at the same time the following rules must be
applied.

Article 18.3.1 Double hansoku-make (Indirect)

In regular time or golden score if both athletes receive three shido, both athletes will
be considered losers, the contest result will be recorded as 0-0, with the following
consequences:

page - 161
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

• Final – both athletes will be awarded 2nd place.

• Bronze medal contest – both athletes will be awarded 5th place.
• Semi-final – both athletes will be awarded 5th place.
• Quarter-final or last 8 repechage – both athletes will be awarded 7th place.
• Rounds prior to the quarter-final – both athletes considered to be losers and will
remain in the position they reached on the draw sheet. They can compete in the
team event if it follows an individual competition i.e., World Championships, Olympic
Games etc.
• Relevant ranking points will be assigned in the case of previous wins.

In a round robin, if both athletes are given three shido, they are considered losers for
that contest only and the contest result is recorded as 0-0. They can both compete in
the next contest if applicable.

In a team event, if both athletes are given three shido, they are considered losers for
that match only and the contest result is recorded as 0-0. They can both compete in the
next round if applicable.

In a team event golden score contest, if both athletes are given three shido, they are
considered losers for that match only and the contest result is recorded as 0-0. The
double disqualification category remains in the draw and golden score contest is drawn
again.

Article 18.3.2 Double hansoku-make (Direct)

For a direct hansoku-make given to both athletes (in regular time or golden score), the
IJF Ad Hoc Commission will decide the consequences.

For a direct hansoku-make given to both athletes in a team event golden score contest
refer to Section 2.7.1.

Article 19 Default and Withdrawal

The decision of fusen-gachi (win by default) shall be given to any athlete whose
opponent does not appear for his contest according to the 30 seconds rule.

Forfeit of a contest: If one athlete is ready on time and the opponent is missing an IJF
Sport Director (or nominated person) will ask the speaker to announce, the last call for
the missing athlete.

The referee will then invite the prepared athlete to wait at the edge of the competition
area. The scoreboard will start to count down 30 seconds.
If at the end of 30 seconds the opponent is still not present at the tatami, the referee will
invite the athlete to enter the competition area and will be declared the winner by fusen-
gachi.

The referee must be sure before awarding fusen-gachi that they have received the
authority to do so by the IJF Sport Director or nominated person.
The IJF Ad Hoc Commission can decide if an athlete forfeiting a contest may participate
in the repechage.

page - 162
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The decision of kiken-gachi shall be given to any athlete whose opponent withdraws
from the competition for any reason, during the contest.

Any athlete not willing to comply with the requirements of hygiene, hair and head cover
regulation (see E1.3 Hygiene) shall be refused the right to compete and the opponent
shall win the contest by fusen-gachi, if the contest has not yet started, or by kiken-gachi,
if the contest has already started.

If an athlete loses a contact lens during the contest and cannot immediately recover it,
and if he then informs the referee that he cannot continue competing without the contact
lens, the referee shall give the victory to his opponent by kiken-gachi.

Article 20 Injury, Illness or Accident

In this article the person in the role of the doctor is defined in Appendix E.

The decision of the contest where one athlete is unable to continue because of injury,
illness or accident during the contest shall be given by the referee following the clauses
below:
a) Injury
1. Where the cause of the injury is attributed to the injured athlete, he shall lose the
contest.

2. Where it is impossible to determine which of the athletes was the cause of the injury,
the athlete unable to continue shall lose the contest.

3. If there is an injury caused by athletes from another contest on a nearby tatami, the
injured athlete has the right to ask the referee to see the doctor.

Treatment can be given if needed and the athlete can continue the contest if able.

4. Where there is an injury caused by an external object (e.g., LED or advertising board,
photographer camera).

The injured athlete has the right to ask the referee to see the doctor and receive
treatment if necessary and can continue in the contest if able.

If during the contest an athlete is injured due to an action by the opponent and the
injured athlete cannot continue, the referee, the IJF Head Referee Director(s) and/or the
IJF Referee Supervisor(s) should analyse the case and decide based on the rules. Each
case shall be decided on its own merit.

b) Sickness, generally, where one athlete is taken sick during a contest and is unable to
continue, he shall lose the contest.

c) Accident, where an accident occurs, which is due to an outside influence (force

majeure), after consulting with the IJF Head Referee Director(s) and/or the IJF Referee
Supervisor(s) and the IJF Medical Commissioner, the contest shall be considered
cancelled or postponed.
In those cases of ‘force majeure’, the IJF Sport Director(s), and the IJF Head Referee
Director(s) will take the final decision.

page - 163
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Medical Examinations
a) The referee shall call the doctor, if necessary, also inside the contest area, to attend
to an athlete who has received a severe impact to the head or back (spinal column), or
whenever the referee has reason to believe there may be a grave or serious injury. In
either case, the doctor will examine the athlete in the shortest time possible and indicate
to the referee whether the athlete can continue or not.

Generally, only one (1) doctor for each athlete is allowed on the competition area.
Should a doctor require any assistant(s), the referee must first be informed. The referee
should remain near to the injured athlete to ensure that the assistance provided by the
doctor is within the rules.

The coach is never allowed on the competition area of the tatami.

However, the referee may consult with the IJF Head Referee Director(s) and/or the IJF
Referee Supervisor(s) and the IJF Medical Commissioner in case they need to comment
on any decision.

If the doctor, after examining an injured athlete, advises the referees that the athlete
cannot continue the contest the referee, after consultation with the IJF Head Referee
Director(s) and/or the IJF Referee Supervisor(s) and the IJF Medical Commissioner,
shall end the contest and declare the opponent to be the winner by kiken-gachi.

b) The athlete may ask the referee to call for the doctor, but in this case the contest is
terminated, and his opponent shall win by kiken-gachi.

c) The doctor may also ask to attend to his athlete, but in this case the contest is
terminated, and the opponent will win by kiken-gachi.

In any case whenever the referee is of the opinion that the contest should not continue,
the referee after consulting with the IJF Head Referee Director(s) and/or the IJF Referee
Supervisor(s) and the IJF Medical Commissioner, shall end the contest and indicate the
result in accordance with the rules.

Bleeding injuries, when a bleeding injury occurs, the referee shall call the doctor to
assist in stopping and isolating the bleeding, outside the contest area, with the presence
of another referee assigned to the specific tatami.
The athlete is not allowed to compete while bleeding.

The same bleeding injury may be treated by the doctor on two (2) occasions. The third
time that the same bleeding injury occurs, the referee, should declare the opponent he
winner by kiken-gachi. However, the IJF Ad Hoc Commission in consultation with the IJF
Medical Commissioner can decide to allow the same bleeding injury to be treated more
than two (2) times.

If bleeding cannot be stopped, the IJF Medical Commissioner will inform the referee who
will declare the opponent the winner by kiken-gachi.

Minor injuries, a minor injury may be treated by the athlete himself. For example, in the
case of a dislocated finger, the referee shall stop the contest (by calling Mate! or Sono-
mama!) and allow the athlete to reset the dislocated finger. This action should be done
immediately, upon the request of the athlete with the assistance of the doctor, outside
the tatami, and the athlete can continue the contest.

page - 164
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The same finger is allowed to be reset on two (2) occasions. If the same dislocation
occurs a third (3rd) time, the athlete is declared not be in condition to continue in the
contest. The referee, after consultation with the IJF Medical Commissioner, shall end the
contest and declare the opponent the winner by kiken-gachi.

The LOC commissioned doctor, or the delegation doctor intervenes upon request of the
referee.

The LOC commissioned doctors, or the delegation doctor must be able to intervene on
the field of play, at their own request, when deemed necessary, in case of danger to the
athlete(s) health i.e., a bad landing on the head or a strangulation.

When a doctor clearly realises - especially in the case of shime-waza – that there is
danger to the health of one of the athletes that he is responsible for, he can go to the
edge of the competition area and call upon the referees to immediately stop the contest.
The referees shall take all necessary steps to assist the doctor.

Such an intervention will necessarily mean the loss of the contest for his athlete and
should therefore only be taken in extreme cases.

If a cadet loses consciousness during shime-waza they are no longer able to continue in
the competition.

To show they want to make this exceptional request, they should stand at the edge of
the competition surface showing two arms in cross in the height of the chest to inform
the referee that they wish to make an emergency intervention. The referee must stop the
contest and allow the doctor to enter the tatami.

Such an intervention will mean the loss of the contest for his athlete, so should only be
taken if necessary.

Three cases are possible:

The delegation doctor / LOC commissioned doctor / IJF Medical Commissioner
announces that the athlete cannot continue the contest because their health is in
danger. The opponent will be declared winner by kiken-gachi.

If the intervention of the delegation doctor is not justified by the IJF Head Referee
Director(s) and/or the IJF Referee Supervisor(s) and the IJF Medical Commissioner, a
final decision will be made about the continuation of the contest.

Medical Assistance
The medical assistance in the following cases should be outside of the competition
area, close to the medical table, the injured athlete must be accompanied by one of the
referees.

a) A minor injury
In the case of a broken nail, the doctor is allowed to assist in cutting the nail. The doctor
may also help in adjusting a scrotum injury (testicles).

b) A bleeding injury
For safety measures whenever there is blood it must always be completely isolated with
the assistance of the doctor by means of adhesive tape, bandages, nasal tampons, (the
use of blood clotters and haemostatics products is permitted).

page - 165
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

When the doctor is called to assist an athlete, such medical assistance should be given
as quickly as possible.

c) Finger/toe dislocation
For the preservation of athletes’ joint health, especially of those who lack experience in
self-treatment, athletes are allowed to seek medical help for finger/toe joint resetting,
including resetting and taping to secure the joint.

Note: Except for the above situations, if the doctor applies any treatment the opponent
shall win by kiken-gachi.

Vomiting
Vomiting by an athlete shall result in kiken-gachi for the other athlete. (See paragraph:
4b) Sickness).

In the case when an athlete through a deliberate action causes an injury to the
opponent, the penalty given to the athlete inflicting the injury on the opponent shall be a
direct hansoku-make, apart from any other disciplinary action that may be taken by IJF
Ad Hoc Commission.

The official delegation doctor shall have a medical degree and must register prior to the
competition. He shall be the only person allowed to sit in the designated area and must
be so identified. e.g., by wearing a red cross armband or waistcoat.

When accrediting a doctor for their delegation, the national federations must take the
responsibility for the actions of their doctors. The LOC doctors must be aware of any
amendments and the interpretations of the rules.

If an injured athlete needs prolonged medical treatment on the tatami, the referee will
declare the non-injured opponent as the winner who will then leave the competition
area.

The referee must stay on the tatami observing treatment or emergency procedures until
the injured athlete is transported safely from the competition area. If necessary, the
medical team should screen the injured athlete off from the view of the public.

The referee should be the last person to leave the tatami.

If the treatment of the injured athlete is extended onto the safety area of a neighbouring
competition area, the IJF Sport Director will stop any contests on affected tatami until it
is safe to continue.

Article 21 Situations not Covered by the Refereeing Rules

When a situation arises, which is not covered by these rules, it shall be dealt with and a
decision given by the referees after consultation with the IJF Head Referee Director(s)
and the IJF Ad Hoc Commission.

page - 166
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

page - 167
IJF MEDICAL AND
ANTI-DOPING
HANDBOOK
All medical and on-site anti-doping matters (at
competitions) are the responsibility of the IJF
Medical Commission. Further information can be
found in the Event Organisation Guide. Reference
should also be made to Appendix D IJF Refereeing
Rules. For assistance contact [email protected] or
[email protected]
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

E1.1 Medical Requirements

In case of an injury, the priority is the athlete’s health. Primarily it is the delegation
doctor (or delegation physiotherapist) who is responsible for the health of their athletes.
The local organising committee (LOC) directly shall provide sufficient medical service
during the competition, including on site treatment and hospital treatment if needed.
They should also provide qualified medical personnel and arrange sufficient medical
materials and equipment.

A minimum of one ambulance must be at the competition venue at least 30 minutes

before the start of a competition day. In case the ambulance must leave the venue, a
minimum of one ambulance must immediately be available on site for replacement.
In the absence of either an ambulance or a team of LOC commissioned doctors the
competition cannot be started or continued.

E1.1.1 Decision Making on the Field of Play

Only certified (and licensed) medical doctors can enter the field of play and go on the
tatami to treat athletes. When a medical decision is needed on the field of play the LOC
commissioned doctors can assist the delegation doctor. In case of a dispute between
them, the delegation doctor will take the decision, however the International Judo
Federation (IJF) Medical Commissioner has the final say. The same policy applies in
the absence of a delegation doctor.

E1.1.2 Decision Making off the Field of Play

When a medical decision is needed out of the field of play, the decision is up to the
delegation doctor (or delegation physiotherapist). In the absence of a delegation
doctor when there is a dispute between the delegation physiotherapist and the LOC
commissioned doctors, the LOC commissioned doctors will take the decision on life
threatening situations. However, in any cases if there is a dispute, it is the IJF Medical
Commissioner who has the final say.

E1.1.3 Rights and Responsibilities

The IJF Medical Commissioner has the responsibility to:
• Arrange for sufficient hygienic conditions.
• Arrange for sufficient health care for all participants, including staff.
• Assure that there is a LOC medical team at the field of play.

The IJF Medical Commissioner has the right to:

• Recommend stopping the competition in case of the delay of the ambulance or the
team of LOC commissioned doctors is more than 15 minutes.
• Stop a contest in case of a dangerous injury.
• Make a final decision whether an injured athlete can continue the contest or not.

LOC commissioned doctors have the responsibility to:

• Be present at the field of play in sufficient number during the entire competition.
• Have sufficient equipment.

LOC commissioned doctors have the right to:

• Decide, in consultation with the IJF Medical Commissioner, whether an injured
athlete can continue the contest or not in case there is no delegation doctor.

page - 169
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

E1.2 Medical Suspension Following Concussion

Athletes of all age categories with suspected concussion (confirmed by either the IJF
Medical Commissioner, or by the event’s head of medical services) are not allowed to
compete within the period of seven (7) days starting the day after the date of the injury.
Athletes can return to competition having a medical clearing from their team medical
doctor, family doctor or any other medical doctor having the authority to issue such a
clearing. The IJF Medical Commission will register athletes under medical suspension.

E1.3 Hygiene
• The judogi shall be clean, generally dry and without unpleasant odour.
• The nails of the feet and hands shall be cut short.
• The personal hygiene of the athlete shall be of a high standard.
• Long hair shall be tied up to avoid causing any inconvenience to the other athlete.
Hair shall be tied by means of a hair band made of rubber or similar material and
be void of any rigid or metal components. The head may not be covered except for
bandaging of a medical nature, which must adhere firmly.
• Any athlete not willing to comply with the requirements of hygiene, judogi rules or the
head cover regulation shall be refused the right to compete, and the opponent shall
win the contest by fusen-gachi, if the contest has not yet started, or by kiken-gachi, if
the contest has already started.

E1.4 Wearable Medical Devices

Any special medical device to be worn during the practice of judo in competition or
training must be submitted in writing for the approval of the IJF and must not in any case
be a potential source of injury for the athlete or the athlete’s opponent. Any special case
must be submitted to the IJF Medical Commission ([email protected]) and the IJF Sport
Commission ([email protected]). The authorised devices are published on the IJF web-site.

E1.5 Doctors’ Code of Conduct

Doctors must respect the Code of Ethics, statutes and regulations of the IJF. In the
case of an infringement proven, penalties may range from a simple verbal warning to
exclusion of competition.

They shall:
• Sit in the doctor’s chair while their athlete is competing.
• Enter the tatami when called by the referee.
• Not coach, shout, cheer, or film.

Doctors must respect the following dress code:

• Doctors shall always wear their accreditation on the field of play as well as in the
warm-up area. The doctor’s symbol should appear on their accreditation.
• Jeans, overalls, shorts, 3/4 length trousers,leggings, sandals, any kind of head caps
or cover, flip flops, body, or facial piercings are not allowed, low-cut necklines and
mini skirts are not allowed.
• Avoid manicure, jewellery that could cause harm to a patient while getting close to
examine him.
• Garments that may interfere with clinical communication, and its assessment, shall be
removed.
• Change immediately if uniforms or clothes become visibly soiled with blood stains or
other.
• Tie long hair off the collar.

page - 170
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

• Wear soft-soled, closed toe shoes.

• Cover tattoos where these are extensive or may be deemed offensive.
• Shall not wear neckties.

E1.6 Doping Control Requirements

The LOC must provide and arrange for doping control following the World Anti-Doping
Agency (WADA) rules (International Standard for Testing and Investigation - ISTI) for
both urine and blood testing respecting the minimum level of analysis as given in the
Technical Document for Sport Specific Analysis (TDSSA).

The Doping Control Station (DCS) has only one function providing space for doping
tests. No other function or unauthorised traffic (no weight control, no use as medical/
emergency room, no use as dressing room) is allowed. It must be guarded, locked and
clearly separated from the competition area. The location of the DCS shall be marked
with clear signs from various directions. No filming or picture taking is allowed in the
doping control area.

E1.6.1 Event Testing

During any judo event under IJF Result Management Authority athletes can be
requested to provide samples for either an in- or out-of-competition test. Doping control
for in-competition tests is carried out under the supervision either of an IJF Medical
Commissioner or a representative of the IJF Medical Commission.

Out-of-competition tests are the responsibility of the authorised Sample Collection

Authority.

E1.6.2 Selection Procedure for Doping Control

The selection criteria for doping control are defined for each event in the event’s
outlines. Unless it was prearranged by the IJF or contracted partner, the IJF Medical
Commissioner together with an IJF Official and a representative of the responsible
Sample Collection Authority will carry out the draw; all participants must sign the draw
protocol.

Any further tests are at the discretion of IJF or an authorised Testing Authority.

E1.6.3 Athlete Notification

Athletes are notified according to ISTI 5.4. For in-competition tests athletes are notified
after their last contest on a day.

E1.6.3.1 Modification of Notification for Minor Athletes

Athletes who are minors should be notified and tested in the presence of an adult
accompanying person of their choice respecting the WADA rules (ISTI, Annex C).

E1.6.4 Laboratory
Only WADA accredited approved Laboratories can analyse the samples. The Doping
Control Coordinator must inform the IJF Medical Commissioner/Antidoping Coordinator
about which laboratory will be used.

In case of Adverse Analytical Finding detected, the IJF will follow the IJF Anti-Doping
Rules. The IJF Medical Commissioner has the right to cancel or stop a test if it is
medically justified.

page - 171
SPORT
COMPETITION
All sport competition matters are the responsibility
of the IJF Sport Commission.
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.1 IJF Event Phases

The competition normally consists of two sessions, preliminaries and the final block. The
competition phases that take place in the sessions depends on the type of event. Any
changes to this will be agreed and approved by the IJF Head Sport Director.
Depending on the number of participants some rounds may not be required for every
category.

Event Competition type Event phase

Grand Prix and Grand Slam Quarter-final repechage Preliminaries
• Elimination round of 128
• Elimination round of 64
• Elimination round of 32
• Elimination round of 16
• Quarter-finals
• Repechage
• Semi-finals
Final block
• Contests for bronze medal
• Final – gold medal
Masters Quarter-final repechage Preliminaries
• Elimination round of 64
• Elimination round of 32
• Elimination round of 16
• Quarter-finals
• Repechage
• Semi-finals
Final block
• Contests for bronze medal
• Final – gold medal
World Championships Seniors Quarter-final repechage Preliminaries
• Elimination round of 128
• Elimination round of 64
• Elimination round of 32
• Elimination round of 16
• Quarter-finals
Final block
• Repechage
• Semi-finals
• Contests for bronze medal
• Final – gold medal
World Championships Juniors and Quarter-final repechage Preliminaries
Cadets • Elimination round of 64
• Elimination round of 32
• Elimination round of 16
• Quarter-finals
• Repechage
• Semi-finals
Final block
• Contests for bronze medal
• Final – gold medal

page - 173
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

World Championships Mixed Quarter-final repechage Preliminaries

Teams • Elimination round of 64
• Elimination round of 32
• Elimination round of 16
• Quarter-finals
• Repechage
• Semi-finals
Final block
• Contests for bronze medal
• Final – gold medal
World Championships Open Quarter-final repechage Preliminaries
• Elimination round of 64
• Elimination round of 32
• Elimination round of 16
• Quarter-finals
Final block
• Repechage
• Semi-finals
• Contests for bronze medal
• Final – gold medal
Olympic Games Quarter-final repechage Preliminaries
• Elimination round of 64
• Elimination round of 32
• Elimination round of 16
• Quarter-finals
Final block
• Repechage
• Semi-finals
• Contests for bronze medal
• Final – gold medal
Olympic Games Mixed Teams Quarter-final repechage Preliminaries
• Elimination round of 16
• Quarter-finals
• Repechage
• Semi-finals
Final Block
• Contests for bronze medal
• Final – gold medal
Youth Olympics Games Individuals Full repechage Preliminaries
• Elimination round of 32
• Elimination round of 16
• Repechage first round of 16
• Repechage second round of 16
• Quarterfinals
• Repechage first round of 8
• Repechage second round of 8
• Semifinals
• Repechage round of 4
Final block
• Contests for bronze medal
• Final – gold medal

page - 174
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.2 Athlete Scoreboards

The scoreboards must be placed in such a way that they are visible to the athletes,
coaches, referee, the IJF Head Referee Director(s) and the IJF Referee Supervisor(s).
They can be stand-alone TV screens or integrated in the LED.
The scoreboards must show:
• The name of the athletes.
• Which athlete is wearing the white judogi and which is wearing the blue judogi.
• The three-letter country code.
• The country flag.
• Weight category.
• The time.
• Scores and penalties.
• Event phase (Rof64, Rof32, Rof16, QF, SF, F etc.) including golden score.

page - 175
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3 Standard Forms for IJF Events

F1.3.1 Delegation Control List

Delegation Control List

Paris Grand Slam 2020 CMR Cameroon

Coach
# Category Change FAMILY NAME Given Name Gender DoB WRL ID
Finals
1 -60 kg TSALA TSALA Bernadin m 20.05.1995 60 8CCE-51AB 1

2 -81 kg MOUTBEKA Lea-Victor m 28.01.1979 358 6A24-5DE6 2

1 -63 kg WEZEU DOMBEU Helene w 08.10.1987 43 893C-27C7 3

2 -70 kg ARREY SOPHINA Ayuk Otay w 03.01.1994 55 988C-9FD9 4

3 +78 kg MBALLA ATANGANA Hortence Vanessa w 05.01.1992 24 BDCE-8362 5

1 Coach CHENET Rodrigue m 07.02.1981 431E-BFB3 A 6

2 Coach NGO BATANG Dona V Therese w 22.09.1976 678F-F67F B 7
3 Doctor MULUEM Olivier Kennedy m 13.01.1978 D47D-9945 8
4 Physiotherapist ZIBI OTTOU Rodrigue Herve Fritz m 19.07.1988 8147-9848 9
5 President KINGUE DIHANG Alain Christian m 13.08.1973 43EE-3D19 10

Please confirm that above categories, name spellings and seeding information are correct and complete
Veuillez verifier et confirmer que les noms et les poids sont corrects et completes
x
Favor confirmar que la información de los competidores así como los datos de siembra son correctos y completos Signature team leader

Delegation checked Finances checked Coach eMail

Page 1/1 ippon.org v2.37 (c) International Judo Federation IJF 07-May-2020 - 18:50:03

page - 176
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.2 Weigh-in List

Weigh-in List
Grand Prix Hohhot 2018 -60 kg
Exact weight Signatur of player
# Nation FAMILY NAME Given Name Date of birth (one position after decimal point) (only in case of overweight)
Out

1 BRA PELIM Phelipe 05.01.1990

2 BRA TAKABATAKE Eric 09.01.1991

3 CHN LIU Wenzhi 28.07.2000

4 CHN SHANG Yi 16.03.1994

5 CHN SU Rilege 14.04.1995

6 CHN ZHANG Haiyang 14.02.1999

7 GBR MACDONALD Neil 06.05.1997

8 JPN OSHIMA Yuma 07.01.1995

9 KAZ KYRGYZBAYEV Gusman 28.09.1992

10 KAZ SMETOV Yeldos 09.09.1992

11 KOR LEE Harim 27.06.1997

12 LAO SITHISANE Soukphaxay 01.05.1996

13 MAR BASSOU Issam 12.10.1998

14 MGL DASHDAVAA Amartuvshin 15.12.1987

15 MGL GANBAT Boldbaatar 03.01.1987

16 NED KOFFIJBERG Roy 14.01.1996

17 NED TSJAKADOEA Tornike 05.10.1996

18 NEP BAM Mohan 12.06.1991

19 PRK JON Pae Dong 21.10.1994

20 PRK PAK Yong Nam 27.04.1996

21 RUS MSHVIDOBADZE Robert 17.08.1989

22 RUS OGUZOV Albert 28.09.1991

23 TPE YANG Yung Wei 28.09.1997

NAME and Signature Weigh-in Official NAME and Signature Weigh-in Official NAME and Signature Weigh-in Official NAME and Signatur Sports Director

Page 1/14 ippon.org v2.27 (c) International Judo Federation IJF 12-Jun-2018 - 19:27:03

page - 177
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.3 Contest Order

IJF Grand Slam Paris 2010

(FRA Paris, 6-7 February 2010)

Contest Order Tatami 1

Category: -60 kg
Preliminary round, Contest # 1

1) -60 kg UZB SOBIROV, Rishod [1001] [1] ALVES, Breno BRA

Preliminary round, Contest # 3

2) -60 kg BEL BOMBOIR, Damien [1008] [5] MEREBASHVILI, Paata GEO

Preliminary round, Contest # 4

3) -60 kg FRA MILOUS, Sofiane [1009] [13] KOPISKE, Robert GER

Category: -48 kg
Preliminary round, Contest # 1

4) -48 kg JPN FUKUMI, Tomoko [1001] [1] BENARD, Elena FRA

Preliminary round, Contest # 4

5) -48 kg NED ENTE, Birgit [1009] [13] GARATEJO, Stefany COL

Preliminary round, Contest # 5

6) -48 kg HUN CSERNOVICZKI, Eva [1004] [3] MESTRE, Dayaris CUB

Category: -60 kg
Preliminary round, Contest # 7

7) -60 kg MAR IDRISSI, Alae [1005] [7] MESSINA, Martin CMR

Preliminary round, Contest # 8

8) -60 kg HUN BURJAN, Laszlo [1012] [15] MUSLIMOV, Artur RUS

09-Mar-2010 - 23:30:58 - Tatami 1 Page: 1

page - 178
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.4 Referees’ List

Referee List
Grand Slam Tokyo 2017 REF01.12.2017

# Nation FAMILY NAME Given Name Number Tatami Selected Referee Judge Classification
1 HUN FRIDRICH Annamaria 1 I
2 JPN OKADA Yasuhiko 2 I
3 BRA VIEIRA Jeferson 3 I
4 EGY ANWAR ALI Khaled 4 I
5 ITA CHYURLIA Roberta 5 I
6 JPN AMANO Akiko 6 II
7 AUT POIGER Roland 7 II
8 MEX GARCIA Everardo 8 II
9 AUS PETR Lubomir 9 II
10 RUS SMOLIN Vasily 10 II
11 MGL TURBAT Enkhtsetseg 11 III
12 FIN KARINKANTA Velimatti 12 III
13 DOM CRUZ Orlando 13 III
14 UZB PERETEYKO Vyacheslav 14 III
15 GEO NUTSUBIDZE Vladimer 15 III
16 KOR HYUN Sook Hee 16 IV
17 GER WOLF Frank 17 IV
18 GUA CABEIRO Andres 18 IV
19 TJK SHAMIROV Ramzi 19 IV
20 TUR BAYAT Nedim 20 IV
21 FRA BATAILLE Matthieu 21 IV

01-Dec-2017 - 06:34:27 ippon.org v2.22 (c) International Judo Federation IJF

page - 179
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.5 Contest Sheet

Weight
Category Gender
Date Mat Obs N°
Catégorie de Genre
Poids

White/Blanc Ctry/Pays Blue/Bleu Ctry/Pays

IPP WAZ SHIDO IPP WAZ SHIDO

X/H/3 2 1 X/H/3 2 1

GS IPP WAZ SHIDO IPP WAZ SHIDO GS

X/H/3 2 1 X/H/3 2 1

TECHNIQUES/ TECHNIQUES/
PENALTIES TIME PENALTIES TIME
SCORES SCORES
TECHNIQUES/ TEMPS TECHNIQUES/ TEMPS
PENALITES PENALITES

GS GS

SCORE/ TIME/
WINNER/VAINQUEUR Ctry/Pays CODE
RESULTAT TEMPS

JUDGE Ctry/ Ctry/ JUDGE Ctry/

N° N° REFEREE/ARBITRE N°
JUGE Pays Pays JUGE Pays

Signature of the representative of the IJF Sport Commission

Signature du représentant de la Commission Sportive de la FIJ

page - 180
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.6 Direct Knockout

page - 181
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.7 Quarter-Final Repechage

Elimination Round Quarter-Finals Semi-Finals Final

1
Pool A

15

3
Pool B

10

19

5
Pool C

11

16

7
Pool D

12

8
Results

Repechage Bronze Fights

Loser from (9)

13
Loser from (10)
17
Loser from (16)

Loser from (11)

14
Loser from (12)
18
Loser from (15)

page - 182
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.8 Quarter-Final Repechage up to 64 Athletes or Teams

page - 183
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.9 Quarter-Final Repechage up to 32 Athletes or Teams

page - 184
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.10 Quarter-Final Repechage up to 16 Athletes or Teams

page - 185
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.11 Quarter-Final Repechage up to 8 Athletes or Teams

page - 186
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.12 Double Repechage up to 64 Athletes or Teams

1
33
1
33
17
49
2
49
9
41
3
34
Pool A

25
57
4
57
5
5 Pool A
37
35
21
53
6
50
13
45
7
36
29
61
8
75
3
35
9
37
19
51
10
51
11
43
11
38
Pool B

27 12
59
58
7
13 Pool B
39
39
23
55
14
52
15
47
15
40
31
63
16
79
2
34 17 1.
41
18
50 18
53
10
42 19
42
Pool C

26
58
20
59
6
38 21 Pool C
43
22
54 22
54
14
46 23
44
30
62 24
76
4
36
25
45
20
52
26
55
12
44
27
46
Pool D

28
60
28
60
8
40
29 Pool D
47
24
56
30
56
16
48
31
48
32
64
32

A1
61
A2 65
B1 A3 69
A4
62 73
B2 66
B3
B4
70 77 3.
(76)
C1
C2
63
67
D1 C3 71
C4
64 74
D2 68
D3 72 78 3.
D4
(75)

page - 187
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.13 Double Repechage up to 32 Athletes or Teams

1
17 1
9
17
2
Pool A

25
25
5 Pool A
21 3
18
13
29 4
39
3
19 5
19
11
27 6
Pool B

26
7 Pool B
23 7
20
15
31 8
43
2 1.
18 9
21
10
26 10
Pool C

27
6 Pool C
22 11
22
14
30
12
40
4
20 13
23
12
14
Pool D

28
28
8 Pool D
24 15
24
16
32 16

A1
29
A2 33
A3
B1 37
30
B2 34 41 3.
B3
C1 (40)
31
C2 35
C3
D1 38
32
D2 36 42 3.
D3 (39)

page - 188
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.14 Double Repechage up to 16 Athletes or Teams

1
Pool A

9
Pool A
2

17

3
Pool B

10
Pool B
4

23
1.
5
Pool C

11
Pool C
6

18

7
Pool D

12
Pool D
8

A1
13
A2
B1 19
B2
14 21 3.
(18)
C1
15
C2
D1 20

D2
16 22 3.
(17)

page - 189
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.15 Double Repechage up to 8 Athletes or Teams

page - 190
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.16 Full Repechage up to 32 Athletes or Teams

1
17
2
41
3
18
4

53

5
19
6
42
7
20
8

59

9
1
21
10
43
11
22
12

54

13
23
14
44
15
24
16

Repechage Loser contest x will appear at x in repechage

5
25
6 33
17
7 45
26
8 34 49
18
1 42
27
2 35 55
19
3 46
28
4 36 50
20
41 3 57

13
29
14 37 54
21
15 47
30
16 38 51
22
9 44
31
10 39 56
23
11 48
32
12 40 52
24
43 3 58

53

page - 191
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.17 Full Repechage up to 16 Athletes or Teams

21

10

27

1
5

11

22

12

Repechage Loser contest x will appear at x in repechage

13
2 17
10

23
3

14
4 18 25
9
3
22

15
6 19
12

24
7

16
8 20 26
11
3
21

page - 192
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.18 Five (5) Athletes or Teams - Option 1

1 3 5
1
3
5
2 4
2
4

1
1
3

1 3
5

3
4
5 6

1.
2 2
4

5 3.

page - 193
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.19 Five (5) Athletes or Teams - Option 2

1 2 3 4 5
1
2
3
4
5

1
1
2

3
1
4

1
1
5

2
1
3

4
1
5

1
1
3

2
1
4

3
1
5

1
1
4

2
1
5

page - 194
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.20 Four (4) Athletes or Teams - Option 1

4 1.

3 3.

page - 195
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.21 Four (4) Athletes or Teams - Option 2

1 2 3 4
1
2
3
4

1
1
2

3
2
4

1
3
3

2
4
4

1
5
4

2
6
3

page - 196
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.22 Three (3) Athletes or Teams - Option 1

1 2 3
1
2
3

1
1
2

1
2
3

2
3
3

4 1.

page - 197
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.23 Three (3) Athletes or Teams - Option 2

1 2 3
1
2
3

1
1
2

1
2
3

2
3
3

page - 198
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.24 Example of Winners’ List

Grand-Slam Tokyo 2013

Tokyo (JPN), 29 Nov - 01 Dec 2013 Men
Final Results

-60 kg -66 kg
1. TAKATO, Naohisa JPN 1. TAKAJO, Tomofumi JPN
2. KIM, Won Jin KOR 2. CHIBANA, Charles BRA
3. KIDO, Shinji JPN 3. LAROSE, David FRA
3. SHISHIME, Toru JPN 3. MIYAZAKI, Ren JPN
5. DASHDAVAA, Amartuvshin MGL 5. DRAGIN, Dimitri FRA
5. SMETOV, Yeldos KAZ 5. FUKUOKA, Masaaki JPN
7. GANBAT, Boldbaatar MGL 7. MARUYAMA, Joshiro JPN
7. HUANG, Sheng-Ting TPE 7. MUKANOV, Azamat KAZ

-73 kg -81 kg
1. NAKAYA, Riki JPN 1. NAGASE, Takanori JPN
2. BANG, Gui-Man KOR 2. PIETRI, Loic FRA
3. DRAKSIC, Rok SLO 3. NAKAI, Takahiro JPN
3. IARTCEV, Denis RUS 3. TCHRIKISHVILI, Avtandili GEO
5. DUPRAT, Pierre FRA 5. HONG, Suk Woong KOR
5. KHASHBAATAR, Tsagaanbaatar MGL 5. STEVENS, Travis USA
7. NAKAMURA, Takenori JPN 7. MRVALJEVIC, Srdjan MNE
7. POMBO DA SILVA, Alex William BRA 7. NAGASHIMA, Keita JPN

-90 kg -100 kg
1. BEIKER, Masyu JPN 1. KRPALEK, Lukas CZE
2. LEE, Kyu-Won KOR 2. REYES, Kyle CAN
3. LIPARTELIANI, Varlam GEO 3. MARET, Cyrille FRA
3. NISHIYAMA, Daiki JPN 3. NAIDAN, Tuvshinbayar MGL
5. HILDEBRAND, Aaron GER 5. PACEK, Martin SWE
5. SHIMOWADA, Shohei JPN 5. RAKOV, Maxim KAZ
7. SULEMIN, Grigorii RUS 7. KUMASHIRO, Yusuke JPN
7. ZARZECZNY, Jakub POL 7. SAMOILOVICH, Sergei RUS

+100 kg
1. KIM, Sung-Min KOR
2. SILVA, Rafael BRA
3. HARASAWA, Hisayoshi JPN
3. MOMOSE, Masaru JPN
5. BONVOISIN, Jean-Sebastien FRA
5. SHICHINOHE, Ryu JPN
7. KIM, Soo-Whan KOR
7. MOURA, David BRA

Page 1/2 www.ippon.org (c) International Judo Federation IJF 15-Jan-2014 - 15:45:52

Grand-Slam Tokyo 2013

Tokyo (JPN), 29 Nov - 01 Dec 2013 Women
Final Results

-48 kg -52 kg
1. KONDO, Ami JPN 1. HASHIMOTO, Yuki JPN
2. MUNKHBAT, Urantsetseg MGL 2. MIRANDA, Erika BRA
3. MENEZES, Sarah BRA 3. CHITU, Andreea ROU
3. YAMAGISHI, Emi JPN 3. SHISHIME, Ai JPN
5. RUMYANTSEVA, Kristina RUS 5. SUNDBERG, Jaana FIN
5. TODA, Miri JPN 5. VALENTIM, Eleudis BRA
7. CHERNIAK, Maryna UKR 7. DELGADO, Angelica USA
7. LABORDE, Maria Celia CUB 7. GOMI, Natsumi JPN

-57 kg -63 kg
1. UDAKA, Nae JPN 1. ABE, Kana JPN
2. MALLOY, Marti USA 2. TASHIRO, Miku JPN
3. DEGUCHI, Christa JPN 3. JOUNG, Da-Woon KOR
3. YAMAMOTO, Anzu JPN 3. TANAKA, Miki JPN
5. QUADROS, Ketleyn BRA 5. BARROS, Mariana BRA
5. SILVA, Rafaela BRA 5. BELLARD, Anne-Laure FRA
7. CAPRIORIU, Corina ROU 7. CAMPOS, Katherine BRA
7. ROPER, Miryam GER 7. VAN EMDEN, Anicka NED

-70 kg -78 kg
1. ARAI, Chizuru JPN 1. VERKERK, Marhinde NED
2. POLLING, Kim NED 2. JEONG, Gyeong-Mi KOR
3. ALVEAR, Yuri COL 3. OKAMURA, Tomomi JPN
3. KIM, Seongyeon KOR 3. SATO, Ruika JPN
5. MARZOK, Iljana GER 5. MALZAHN, Luise GER
5. TACHIMOTO, Haruka JPN 5. THIELE, Kerstin GER
7. CONWAY, Sally GBR 7. TURKS, Victoriia UKR
7. GAZIEVA, Irina RUS 7. WANG, Szu-Chu TPE

+78 kg
1. TACHIMOTO, Megumi JPN
2. YAMABE, Kanae JPN
3. ORTIZ, Idalys CUB
3. QIN, Qian CHN
5. ASAHINA, Sara JPN
5. MA, Sisi CHN
7. LEE, Jung Eun KOR
7. NUNES, Rochele BRA

Page 2/2 www.ippon.org (c) International Judo Federation IJF 15-Jan-2014 - 15:45:52

page - 199
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.25 Example of Mixed Teams Line Up Confirmation

Line-up confirmation Tatami: II

Team World Championship Juniors 2013 JPN Men
Bronze #18

Round: Men Bronze

Match: JAPAN - SLOVENIA

Family name Given name original category

HASHIGUCHI Yuuki -66 kg

-66 kg TATEYAMA Sho -66 kg
< no competitor > -

IWABUCHI Yusei -73 kg

HASHIGUCHI Yuuki -66 kg
-73 kg
TATEYAMA Sho -66 kg

< no competitor > -

KOHARA Kenya -81 kg

-81 kg IWABUCHI Yusei -73 kg

< no competitor > -

KOBAYASHI Yusuke -90 kg

-90 kg KOHARA Kenya -81 kg

< no competitor > -

KURAHASHI Isao +90 kg

SATO Kazuya +90 kg
+90 kg
KOBAYASHI Yusuke -90 kg

< no competitor > -

X Please mark for each category the selected player.

If you need to make corrections please use a new sheet.

x
Line-up confirmation
Please confirm that above names and categories are correct and complete
Veuillez verifier et confirmer que les noms et les poids sont corrects et completes Tatami: II
SLO Men
Favor confirmar que la información de los competidores así como los datos de siembra son correctos y completos Signature team leader
Team World Championship Juniors 2013
Submission time Official Validated Published Bronze #18

Page 1/1 www.ippon.org (c) International Judo Federation IJF 22-Jun-2014 - 15:13:14
Round: Men Bronze
Match: JAPAN - SLOVENIA

Family name Given name original category

GOMBOC Adrian -66 kg

-66 kg KURALT Luka -66 kg
< no competitor > -

HOJAK Martin -73 kg

POTPARIC Igor -73 kg
-73 kg GOMBOC Adrian -66 kg

KURALT Luka -66 kg

< no competitor > -

MARINCIC Primoz -81 kg

VOLCIC David -81 kg
-81 kg HOJAK Martin -73 kg

POTPARIC Igor -73 kg

< no competitor > -

MULEC Tadej -90 kg

ZGANK Mihael -90 kg
-90 kg MARINCIC Primoz -81 kg

VOLCIC David -81 kg

< no competitor > -

DRAGIC Vito +90 kg

POLAJZER Rok +90 kg
+90 kg MULEC Tadej -90 kg

ZGANK Mihael -90 kg

< no competitor > -

X Please mark for each category the selected player.

If you need to make corrections please use a new sheet.

Please confirm that above names and categories are correct and complete
Veuillez verifier et confirmer que les noms et les poids sont corrects et completes
x
Favor confirmar que la información de los competidores así como los datos de siembra son correctos y completos Signature team leader

Submission time Official Validated Published

Page 1/1 www.ippon.org (c) International Judo Federation IJF 22-Jun-2014 - 15:13:31

page - 200
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.26 Example of Mixed Teams Line Up Confirmation

Line-up confirmation Tatami: I

Suzuki World Championship Teams 2017 CRO
Second Round #22

Round: Second Round

Match: GEORGIA - CROATIA
Family name Given name original category

SIKIC Tena -57 kg

-57 kg TOPOLOVEC Tihea -57 kg
< no competitor > -

AZINOVIC Bernard -73 kg

-73 kg SUMPOR Dominic -73 kg
< no competitor > -

MATIC Barbara -70 kg

SIKIC Tena -57 kg
-70 kg
TOPOLOVEC Tihea -57 kg
< no competitor > -

DRUZETA Dominik -90 kg

AZINOVIC Bernard -73 kg
-90 kg
SUMPOR Dominic -73 kg
< no competitor > -

SUTALO Ivana +70 kg

+70 kg MATIC Barbara -70 kg
< no competitor > -

KUMRIC Marko +90 kg

KUMRIC Zlatko +90 kg
+90 kg
DRUZETA Dominik -90 kg
< no competitor > -

X Please mark for each category the selected player.

If you need to make corrections please use a new sheet.

Please confirm that above names and categories are correct and complete
Veuillez verifier et confirmer que les noms et les poids sont corrects et completes
x Line-up confirmation Tatami: I
GEO
Favor confirmar que la información de los competidores así como los datos de siembra son correctos y completos Signature team leader
Suzuki World Championship Teams 2017
Submission time Official Validated Published
Second Round #22

Round: Second Round

Page 1/1 ippon.org v2.27 (c) International Judo Federation IJF 08-Apr-2018 - 08:46:42 Match: GEORGIA - CROATIA
Family name Given name original category

JANASHVILI Mariam -57 kg

-57 kg
< no competitor > -

GIUNASHVILI Lasha -73 kg

-73 kg MARGVELASHVILI Vazha -73 kg
< no competitor > -

ODZELASHVILI Nino -70 kg

STAM Esther -70 kg
-70 kg
JANASHVILI Mariam -57 kg
< no competitor > -

GVINIASHVILI Beka -90 kg

TCHRIKISHVILI Avtandili -90 kg
-90 kg GIUNASHVILI Lasha -73 kg
MARGVELASHVILI Vazha -73 kg
< no competitor > -

KEBADZE Elene +70 kg

ODZELASHVILI Nino -70 kg
+70 kg
STAM Esther -70 kg
< no competitor > -

OKRUASHVILI Adam +90 kg

TUSHISHVILI Guram +90 kg
+90 kg GVINIASHVILI Beka -90 kg
TCHRIKISHVILI Avtandili -90 kg
< no competitor > -

X Please mark for each category the selected player.

If you need to make corrections please use a new sheet.

Please confirm that above names and categories are correct and complete
Veuillez verifier et confirmer que les noms et les poids sont corrects et completes
x
Favor confirmar que la información de los competidores así como los datos de siembra son correctos y completos Signature team leader

Submission time Official Validated Published

Page 1/1 ippon.org v2.27 (c) International Judo Federation IJF 08-Apr-2018 - 08:46:16

page - 201
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.27 Example of Mixed Teams Team Sheet - with Results

page - 202
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.28 Example of Mixed Teams Match Sheet

page - 203
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.29 Coach Suspension Form

INTERNATIONAL JUDO FEDERATION

THE REFEREE COMMISSION

COACH SUSPENSION
IN THE CASE OF COACH SUSPENSION, THE REFEREE MUST IMMEDIATELY:

1.FILL LEGIBLY THIS BOX AND SIGN THIS FORMAT.

2.TAKE IT TO THE SUPERVISOR OF THE TATAMI CONCERNED WHO MUST SIGN IT FOR
CONFIRMATION.
3.DELIVER IT TO THE PERSON IN CHARGE OF RUNNING THE COMPETITION.
4.AFTER REGISTRATION, THE DOCUMENT MUST BE RECEIVED TO THE SECRETARY OF THE
REFEREE COMMISSION WHICH WILL KEEP IT TOGETHER WITH THE EVENT’S ACTS.

N. B.: EACH REFEREE IS PERSONALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR WHAT HAPPENS IN THE EVENT IN
WHICH HE IS INTERESTED

Event: ____________________ Date: _____ / _____/ 202__ Mat. N° ______

Kg. ______ Contest n° ______ Nations involved in contest _________/__________

Name of suspended coach: __________________________________________

Country: _________________________ Number List: ___________________

Brief description of the incident (mark the interested part with an “X”):

2° warning talking _________________________________________

Gestures & Talking 2° warning ______________________________

2° warning talking - & - from tribune__________________________

Others __________________________________________________

Referee: ________________________________________________
(Name-Country-Signature)

Supervisor: ________________________________________________
(Name-Country-Signature)

Decision of the Education Director: _____________________________

(Mark the decision):

-One day suspension.

-Suspension from the present event and considering taking a

disciplinary action.

page - 204
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.30 Article 18 Direct Hansoku-make Form

INTERNATIONAL JUDO FEDERATION

ARTICLE 18 - Prohibited Acts and Penalties
DIRECT HANSOKU-MAKE FOR ACTS AGAINST THE SPIRIT OF JUDO

IN THE CASE OF DIRECT HANSOKU-MAKE FOR ACTS AGAINST THE SPIRIT OF JUDO (APPENDIX ARTICLE
18) THE JUDOKA CANNOT CONTINUE IN COMPETITION.

THE REFEREE MUST IMMEDIATELY:

1.FILL IT AND SIGN THIS FORMAT.

2. TAKE IT TO THE SUPERVISOR OF THE TATAMI CONCERNED WHO MUST SIGN IT FOR CONFIRMATION.
3. DELIVER IT TO THE PERSON IN CHARGE OF RUNNING THE COMPETITION.
4. AFTER REGISTRATION, THE DOCUMENT MUST BE RECEIVED TO THE SECRETARY OF THE REFEREE
COMMISSION WHICH WILL KEEP IT TOGETHER WITH THE EVENT’S ACTS.

N. B .: EACH REFEREE IS PERSONALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR WHAT HAPPENS IN THE EVENT IN WHICH HE
IS INTERESTED

Event: ________________________________________

Date: ___/02/2022 Mat. N° _____ Kg. -______ Contest n° _______

Nations involved in the contest: __________/__________

Name of suspended judoka: ______________________________________

Country: ____________________________________________________

Brief description of the action: ______________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

Referee (Name-Country-Signature): ______________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

The Supervisor: _______________________________________________

(Name-Country-Signature)

The Sport / Education Director: ______________________________________

(Name-Country-Signature)

Note: In the case of direct Hansoku-make for protection of the judoka (diving head first onto the
mat, etc., APPENDIX Article 18), the judoka is allowed to continue in the competition.

page - 205
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.31 Coaches Request to Review Action

INTERNATIONAL JUDO FEDERATION

THE REFEREE COMMISSION

Request of Coach to review a contest on video by Refereeing Commission

(please complete all the fields below)

IJF event (Name – Date):

Name of the coach:
National Federation:
Weight category:
Contest number:
Tatami number:
Name/Country of competitor white:
Name/Country of competitor blue:
Approximate time of action / decision:
Signature of coach:
Date: _____ / _____ / 202__
IJF Refereeing Commission
Please return this form to the coach review desk in the judogi control area.
Deposez le formulaire au bureau dans la zone de controle des judogi
Пожалуйста верните данную форму в пункт запроса тренеров в зоне кимоно контроля.

page - 206
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

F1.3.32 Record Sheet - Judogi Breaches

page - 207
GLOSSARY
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

G1.1 Glossary of Japanese Terms

Approved by the Kodokan.

Japanese is one of the most difficult languages in the world for translating due its
complexity, and the fact that many aspects of the language are not present in English.
Differences in the written English of many words is due to the transliteration style of the
Japanese language. In judo books and other published materials, we can find different
versions of the same word e.g., kumi-kata and kumikata.

In each box the word/text on top is from the original Sport and Organisation Rules
(SOR) glossary and below is the word/text as it is in the Kodokan dictionary (Kōdōkan,
New Japanese - English Dictionary of Judo, 2000). If there is only one word/text it is the
same in both reference documents.

Japanese Kanji Hiragana English

SOR glossary SOR glossary
Kodokan dictionary Kodokan dictionary
Anza 安坐 あんざ Sitting cross-legged
Ashi-waza 足技 あしわざ Foot or leg throw
Ashi waza Foot and leg techniques
Atemi-waza 当身技 あてみわざ Striking techniques
Atemi waza
Awase-waza 合せ技 あわせわざ Combination of two waza-ari
Awase waza Point by combination
Ayumi-ashi 歩み足 あゆみあし Natural stepping
Bogyo 防御 ぼうぎょ Defence
Bushi-do 武士道 ぶしどう Norms of the warrior (bushi, samurai)
class
Dan 段位 だんい Dan grade
Dan ranking/level
Dojo 道場 どうじょう Training hall
Encho-sen 延長戦 えんちょうせん Extended contest
Eri 襟 えり Lapel/collar
Fuku-shin 副審 ふくしん Assistant referee/table judge
Fuku shin Assistant referees
Fusegi 防ぎ ふせぎ Synonymous with Bogyo
Fusen-gachi 不戦勝ち ふせんがち Win by default (e.g., did not appear)
Fusen gachi
Haisha 敗者 はいしゃ Loser
“Hajime!” 「始め！」 「はじめ！」 “Start!”
“Begin!”
Hansoku 反則 はんそく Foul
Foul; violation

page - 209
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Hansoku-make 反則負け はんそくまけ Defeat by grave infringement or

accumulated light infringements
Hansoku make Defeat by decision
Hazumi (No Kanji) はずみ Skilfulness with impetus, sharpness or
rhythm
Henka-waza 変化技 へんかわざ Techniques against opponent’s attack
Henka waza Change technique
Hidari 左 ひだり Left
Hidari-jigo-tai 左自護体 ひだりじごたい Left lower posture
Hidari jigotai Left defensive posture
Hidari-shizen-tai 左自然体 ひだりしぜんたい Left natural posture
Hidari shizentai
Hiki-te 引き手 ひきて Pulling hand
Hikite Sleeve hand; pulling hand
Hikiwake 引き分け ひきわけ Draw
A draw, a tie
Ikioi 勢い いきおい Momentum with both force and speed
Ippon 一本 いっぽん Complete point
One point; a complete point
Jigo-hon-tai 自護本体 じごほんたい Straight lower posture
Jigo hontai Straight defensive posture
Jigo-tai 自護体 じごたい Lower posture
Jigotai Defensive posture
Jiku-ashi 軸足 じくあし Pivot leg
Jiku ashi Pivot leg; support leg
Jita-kyoei 自他共栄 じたきょうえい Mutual welfare and benefit
Jo-gai 場外 じょうがい Outside contest area
Jōgai Area perimeter zone
Jo-i 上衣 じょうい Jacket
Jo-nai 場内 じょうない Inside contest area
Jōnai Area interior
Jo-seki 上席 じょうせき Upper seats
Jōseki Upper seat or seat of honour
Judo 柔道 じゅうどう Way of using one’s mental and physical
Jūdō strength in the most efficient manner
Judogi/Judo-gi 柔道衣 じゅうどうぎ Judo uniform - white or blue worn with a
Jūdōgi belt
Judoka 柔道家 じゅうどうか Judo player
Judo-ka Judo minded people
Kachi 勝ち かち Win
Kaeshi-waza 返し技 かえしわざ Counter techniques
Kaeshi waza

page - 210
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Kake 掛け かけ Execution of throwing techniques

Application; execution
Kansetsu-waza 関節技 かんせつわざ Joint locks
Kansetsu waza Joint techniques
Kappo 活法 かっぽう Resuscitation method
Kappō Resuscitation techniques
Kata 形 かた Forms
肩 Forms; formal exercise; pattern practice
Katame-waza 固技 かためわざ Grappling techniques
Katame waza
Katsu 活 かつ Techniques of Kappo
Keiko 稽古 けいこ Training/practice
Training; practice
Kakari geiko かかり稽古 かかりげいこ Synonymous with uchikomi
Kiken-gachi 棄権勝ち きけんがち Win by withdrawal
Kiken gachi Victory by opponent’s withdrawal
Kime 極め きめ Complete execution
Complete application
Kin-sa 僅差 きんさ Slight superiority or inferiority
Kinsa Subtle differences
Kinshi-waza 禁止技 きんしわざ Prohibited techniques
Kinshi waza
“Kiotsuke!” 「気をつけ！」 「きをつけ！」 “Attention!” (words of command to make
the person stand straight up with closed
heels)
Kogeki 攻撃 こうげき Attack/offense
Kogi 講義 こうぎ Lecture
Koshi-waza 腰技 こしわざ Hip throw
Koshi waza Hip techniques
Kumi-te 組み手 くみて Grips hold
Kumite Taking grips
Kumi-kata 組み方 くみかた Method of grips hold
Kumikata Engagement position
Kuzure 崩 くずれ Broken/variation
Kuzushi 崩し くずし Balance breaking
Balance-breaking
Kyu-sho 急所 きゅうしょ Vital points
Kyūsho Vital point
Ma’ai 間合い まあい Distance between two athletes
Maai Combative interval
Mae-mawari-ukemi 前回り受身 まえまわりうけみ Forward rolling breakfall
Mae-ukemi 前受身 まえうけみ Forward breakfall
“Maitta!” 「参った！」 「まいった！」 “I give up!”

page - 211
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Ma-sutemi-waza 真捨身技 ますてみわざ Supine sacrifice throw

Ma sutemi waza Supine or rear sacrifice techniques
“Mate!” 「待て！」 「まて！」 “Wait!”
Migi 右 みぎ Right
Migi-jigo-tai 右自護体 みぎじごたい Right lower posture
Migi jigotai Right defensive posture
Migi-shizen-tai 右自然体 みぎしぜんたい Right natural posture
Migi shizentai
Mondo 問答 もんどう Questions and answers
Nagekomi 投げ込み なげこみ Repetitive throwing practice
Nage-waza 投技 なげわざ Throwing techniques
Nage waza
Ne-shisei 寝姿勢 ねしせい Ground position
Ne shisei Mat posture
Ne-shobu 寝勝負 ねしょうぶ Ground battle
Neshōbu Grappling; mat work
Ne-waza 寝技 ねわざ Ground work
Newaza Mat/ground techniques
Obi 帯 おび Belt
Osaekomi-waza 抑込技 おさえこみわざ Hold down techniques
Osaekomi waza Pinning techniques
“Osaekomi!” 「抑え込み！」 「おさえこみ！」 “Hold is on!”
“Otagai-ni-rei!” 「お互いに礼！」 「おたがいにれ “Bow to each other!”
い！」
Randori 乱取 らんどり Free sparring
Free practice; free sparring
Rei 礼 れい Courtesy
Respect; decorum
“Rei!” 「礼！」 「れい！」 “Bow!”
Rei-ho 礼法 れいほう Method of courtesy/bowing procedure
Reihō Forms of proper respect; etiquette;
manners; or decorum
Riai 理合い りあい Theory and principle
Principle; theory
Renraku-waza 連絡技 れんらくわざ Combination of several techniques
Renraku waza Combination techniques
Renzoku-waza 連続技 れんぞくわざ Repetition of the same technique
Renzoku waza Continuous combinations of techniques
Ritsu-rei 立礼 りつれい Standing bow
Ritsurei
Seiryouku-zen’yo 精力善用 せいりょくぜんよう Maximum efficiency
Seiza 正坐 せいざ Sitting square/formal sitting
Formal sitting

page - 212
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Sensei 先生 せんせい Teacher/instructor

Shiai 試合 しあい Contest
Match; bout
Shiai-jo 試合場 しあいじょう Competition area
Shiaijō
Shido 指導 しどう Instruction/light penalty
Shidō Guidance
Shime-waza 絞技 しめわざ Strangling techniques
Shime waza
Shimpan 審判 しんぱん Refereeing
Shinpan Refereeing; umpiring
Shimpan-in 審判員 しんぱんいん Referees and judges
Shinpan in Referees
Shisei 姿勢 しせい Posture
Shita-baki 下穿き したばき Trousers
Shizen-hon-tai 自然本体 しぜんほんたい Straight natural posture
Shizen hontai
Shizen-tai 自然体 しぜんたい Natural posture
Shizentai
Shomen 正面 しょうめん Dojo front/upper seats
Shōmen Dojo front
“Shomen-ni-rei!” 「正面に礼！」 「しょうめんにれ “Bow towards Shomen!”
い！」
Shosha 勝者 しょうしゃ Winner
Shōsha Winner; victor
Sotai-renshu 相対練習 そうたいれんしゅう Practice with partner
Shu-shin 主審 しゅしん Chief referee/mat referee
Shushin Chief referee
Sode 袖 そで Sleeve
“Sono-mama!” (No Kanji) 「そのまま！」 “Do not move/hold positions!”
“Sono mama!” “Hold positions!”
“Sore-made!” (No Kanji) 「それまで！」 “Time is up!”
“Sore made!” “Finished!”
Suri-ashi すり足 すりあし Sliding walk
Sutemi-waza 捨身技 すてみわざ Sacrifice throw
Sutemi waza Sacrifice technique
Tachi-shisei 立ち姿勢 たちしせい Standing position
Tachi shisei Standing posture
A position where both athletes can attack
and defend each other, usually means
a posture standing on the feet. Other
postures (lying on the back, stomach,
sitting or kneeling or on all fours) are
considered as ne-shisei (ground position).

page - 213
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Tachi-shobu 立ち勝負 たちしょうぶ Standing battle

Tachi shōbu Standing match
Tachi-waza 立技 たちわざ Standing throw
Tachi waza Standing techniques
Tai-sabaki 体捌き たいさばき Body shifting/body control
Tai sabaki
Tandoku-renshū 単独練習 たんどくれんしゅう Practice done alone
Tatami 畳 たたみ Straw mat
Te-waza 手技 てわざ Hand throw
Te waza Hand techniques
“Toketa!” 「解けた！」 「とけた！」 “Hold-down broken!”
“Hold broken!”
Tokui-waza 得意技 とくいわざ Favourite technique
Tori 取 とり Athlete executing technique
Doer/the thrower
Tsugi-ashi 継ぎ足 つぎあし Jointing stepping
Tsukuri 作り つくり Set-up to execute technique
Positioning; set-up
Tsuri-te 釣り手 つりて Lifting hand
Tsurite Collar hand; catching hand
Uchikomi 打ち込み うちこみ Repetition training
Ude-gaeshi 腕返し うでがえし Arm locking throw/arm reverse
Ude gaeshi Arm reverse
Uke 受 うけ Athlete receiving opponent’s attack
“Receiver; the thrown”
Ukemi 受身 うけみ Break fall
Breakfall
Ushiro-ukemi 後ろ受身 うしろうけみ Rear breakfall
Waza 技 わざ Techniques
Technique
Waza-ari 技あり わざあり Nearly ippon
Waza ari “Technique exists”; a near ippon
“Waza-ari- 「技あり，合せて 「わざあり，あわせ “Two waza-ari score Ippon!”
awasete-Ippon!” 一本！」 ていっぽん！」
Yakusoku-renshu 約束練習 やくそくれんしゅう Agreed-upon practice
Yakusoku renshū Controlled or “agreed-upon” practice
Yoko-sutemi-waza 横捨身技 よこすてみわざ Side sacrifice throw
Yoko sutemi waza Side sacrifice technique
Yoko-ukemi 横受身 よこうけみ Side breakfall
“Yoshi!” (No Kanji) 「よし！」 “Resume!”
“Continue!”
Yusei-gachi 優勢勝ち ゆうせいがち Win by superior performance
Yūsei gachi

page - 214
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Za-rei 坐礼 ざれい Seated bow

Zarei
Zori 草履 ぞうり Sandal
Zōri

page - 215
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

G1.2 Names of Judo Techniques

All techniques can be found on the Kodokan official YouTube channel (https://www.
youtube.com/@KODOKANJUDO) or by clicking the link on their name.

G1.2.1 Nage-waza (68)

Te-waza
1 Seoi-nage 背負投 せおいなげ SON
2 Ippon-seoi-nage 一本背負投 いっぽんせおいなげ ISN
3 Seoi-otoshi 背負落 せおいおとし SOO
4 Tai-otoshi 体落 たいおとし TOS
5 Kata-guruma 肩車 かたぐるま KGU
6 Sukui-nage 掬投 すくいなげ SUK
7 Obi-otoshi 帯落 おびおとし OOS
8 Uki-otoshi 浮落 うきおとし UOT
9 Sumi-otoshi 隅落 すみおとし SOT
10 Yama-arashi 山嵐 やまあらし YAS
11 Obi-tori-gaeshi 帯取返 おびとりがえし OTG
12 Morote-gari 双手刈 もろてがり MGA
13 Kuchiki-taoshi 朽木倒 くちきたおし KTA
14 Kibisu-gaeshi 踵返 きびすがえし KIG
15 Uchi-mata-sukashi 内股すかし うちまたすかし UMS
16 Ko-uchi-gaeshi 小内返 こうちがえし KOU

Koshi-waza
1 Uki-goshi 浮腰 うきごし UGO
2 O-goshi 大腰 おおごし OGO
3 Koshi-guruma 腰車 こしぐるま KOG
4 Tsurikomi-goshi 釣込腰 つりこみごし TKG
5 Sode-tsurikomi-goshi 袖釣込腰 そでつりこみごし STG
6 Harai-goshi 払腰 はらいごし HRG
7 Tsuri-goshi 釣腰 つりごし TGO
8 Hane-goshi 跳腰 はねごし HNG
9 Utsuri-goshi 移腰 うつりごし UTS
10 Ushiro-goshi 後腰 うしろごし USH

page - 216
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Ashi-waza
1 De-ashi-harai 出足払 であしはらい DAH
2 Hiza-guruma 膝車 ひざぐるま HIZ
3 Sasae-tsurikomi-ashi 支釣込足 ささえつりこみあし STA
4 O-soto-gari 大外刈 おおそとがり OSG
5 O-uchi-gari 大内刈 おおうちがり OUG
6 Ko-soto-gari 小外刈 こそとがり KSG
7 Ko-uchi-gari 小内刈 こうちがり KUG
8 Okuri-ashi-harai 送足払 おくりあしはらい OAH
9 Uchi-mata 内股 うちまた UMA
10 Ko-soto-gake 小外掛 こそとがけ KSK
11 Ashi-guruma 足車 あしぐるま AGU
12 Harai-tsurikomi-ashi 払釣込足 はらいつりこみあし HTA
13 O-guruma 大車 おおぐるま OGU
14 O-soto-guruma 大外車 おおそとぐるま OGR
15 O-soto-otoshi 大外落 おおそとおとし OSO
16 Tsubame-gaeshi 燕返 つばめがえし TSU
17 O-soto-gaeshi 大外返 おおそとがえし OGA
18 O-uchi-gaeshi 大内返 おおうちがえし OUC
19 Hane-goshi-gaeshi 跳腰返 はねごしがえし HGG
20 Harai-goshi-gaeshi 払腰返 はらいごしがえし HGE
21 Uchi-mata-gaeshi 内股返 うちまたがえし UMG

Ma-sutemi-waza
1 Tomoe-nage 巴投 ともえなげ TNG
2 Sumi-gaeshi 隅返 すみがえし SUG
3 Hikikomi-gaeshi 引込返 ひきこみがえし HKG
4 Tawara-gaeshi 俵返 たわらがえし TWG
5 Ura-nage 裏投 うらなげ UNA

page - 217
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Yoko-sutemi-waza
1 Yoko-otoshi 横落 よこおとし YOT
2 Tani-otoshi 谷落 たにおとし TNO
3 Hane-makikomi 跳巻込 はねまきこみ HNM
4 Soto-makikomi 外巻込 そとまきこみ SMK
5 Uchi-makikomi 内巻込 うちまきこみ UMK
6 Uki-waza 浮技 うきわざ UWA
7 Yoko-wakare 横分 よこわかれ YWA
8 Yoko-guruma 横車 よこぐるま YGU
9 Yoko-gake 横掛 よこがけ YGA
10 Daki-wakare 抱分 だきわかれ DWK
11 O-soto-makikomi 大外巻込 おおそとまきこみ OSM
12 Uchi-mata-makikomi 内股巻込 うちまたまきこみ UMM
13 Harai-makikomi 払巻込 はらいまきこみ HRM
14 Ko-uchi-makikomi 小内巻込 こうちまきこみ KUM
15 Kani-basami 蟹挟 かにばさみ KBA
16 Kawazu-gake 河津掛 かわづがけ KWA

G1.2.2 Katame-waza (32)

Osaekomi-waza
1 Kesa-gatame 袈裟固 けさがため KEG
2 Kuzure-kesa-gatame 崩袈裟固 くずれけさがため KKE
3 Ushiro-kesa-gatame 後袈裟固 うしろけさがため UKG
4 Kata-gatame 肩固 かたがため KAG
5 Kami-shiho-gatame 上四方固 かみしほうがため KSH
6 Kuzure-kami-shiho-gatame 崩上四方固 くずれかみしほうがため KKS
7 Yoko-shiho-gatame 横四方固 よこしほうがため YSG
8 Tate-shiho-gatame 縦四方固 たてしほうがため TSG
9 Uki-gatame 浮固 うきがため UGT
10 Ura-gatame 裏固 うらがため URG

page - 218
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Shime-waza
1 Nami-juji-jime 並十字絞 なみじゅうじじめ NJJ
2 Gyaku-juji-jime 逆十字絞 ぎゃくじゅうじじめ GJJ
3 Kata-juji-jime 片十字絞 かたじゅうじじめ KJJ
4 Hadaka-jime 裸絞 はだかじめ HAD
5 Okuri-eri-jime 送襟絞 おくりえりじめ OEJ
6 Kataha-jime 片羽絞 かたはじめ KHJ
7 Katate-jime 片手絞 かたてじめ KTJ
8 Ryote-jime 両手絞 りょうてじめ RYJ
9 Sode-guruma-jime 袖車絞 そでぐるまじめ SGJ
10 Tsukkomi-jime 突込絞 つっこみじめ TKJ
11 Sankaku-jime 三角絞 さんかくじめ SAJ
12 Do-jime 胴絞 どうじめ DOJ

Kansetsu-waza
1 Ude-garami 腕緘 うでがらみ UGR
2 Ude-hishigi-juji-gatame 腕挫十字固 うでひしぎじゅうじがため JGT
3 Ude-hishigi-ude-gatame 腕挫腕固 うでひしぎうでがため UGA
4 Ude-hishigi-hiza-gatame 腕挫膝固 うでひしぎひざがため HIG
5 Ude-hishigi-waki-gatame 腕挫腋固 うでひしぎわきがため WAK
6 Ude-hishigi-hara-gatame 腕挫腹固 うでひしぎはらがため HGA
7 Ude-hishigi-ashi-gatame 腕挫脚固 うでひしぎあしがため AGA
8 Ude-hishigi-te-gatame 腕挫手固 うでひしぎてがため TGT
Ude-hishigi-sankaku-
9 腕挫三角固 うでひしぎさんかくがため SGT
gatame
10 Ashi-garami 足緘 あしがらみ AGR

G1.3 Penalty Codes

Article
Penalty Penalty Article
Action against spirit of judo Section
code given Section Number
Negative judo PS1 Shido 18.1.1 1
False attack PS2 Shido 18.1.1 2
Pull down PS3 Shido 18.1.1 3
Non combativity PS4 Shido 18.1.1 4

page - 219
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Push out PS5 Shido 18.1.1 5

Cover face PS6 Shido 18.1.1 6
Grip avoidance PS7 Shido 18.1.2 7
Grab below belt PS8 Shido 18.1.2 8
Duck under arm PS9 Shido 18.1.2 9
Hooking opponent's leg PS10 Shido 18.1.2 10
Defensive kumikata PS11 Shido 18.1.2 11
Fingers interlocked PS12 Shido 18.1.2 12
Insert finger into judogi PS13 Shido 18.1.2 13
Bend opponent’s fingers PS14 Shido 18.1.2 14
Grip breaking PS15 Shido 18.1.2 15
Break grip with knee or leg PS16 Shido 18.1.2 16
Hide lapel PS17 Shido 18.1.2 17
Grip avoidance with a blow PS18 Shido 18.1.2 18
Block opponent's hand PS19 Shido 18.1.2 19
Leg grabbing PS20 Shido 18.1.2 20
Encircling belt or jacket PS21 Shido 18.1.2 21
Judogi in the mouth PS22 Shido 18.1.2 22
Foot in judogi or belt PS23 Shido 18.1.2 23
Shime-waza with the jacket/belt PS24 Shido 18.1.2 24
Overstretching leg in shime-waza PS25 Shido 18.1.2 25
Bear hug PS26 Shido 18.1.2 26
Shime-waza using the legs to assist PS27 Shido 18.1.2 27
Kicking PS28 Shido 18.1.2 28
Kansetsu-waza or shime-waza without PS29 Shido 18.1.2 29
a judo throwing technique
Entangling the leg PS30 Shido 18.1.2 30
Reverse seoi-nage PS31 Shido 18.1.2 31
Untidy judogi PS32 Shido 18.1.2 32
Untidy hair PS33 Shido 18.1.2 33
Hansku-
Head dive PH1 18.2.1 1
make (H)
Hansku-
Head defence PH2 18.2.1 2
make (H)
Hansoku-
Kawzu-gake PX1 18.2.2 1
make (X)

page - 220
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Hansoku-
Kani-basami PX2 18.2.2 2
make (X)
Hansoku-
Do-jime PX3 18.2.2 3
make (X)
Hansoku-
Illegal kansetsu-waza PX4 18.2.2 4
make (X)
Hansoku-
Falling while applying an armlock PX5 18.2.2 5
make (X)
Kansetsu-waza or shime-waza with a Hansoku-
PX6 18.2.2 6
judo throwing technique make (X)
Hansoku-
Reap opponent's supporting leg PX7 18.2.2 7
make (X)
Hansoku-
Dangerous action PX8 18.2.2 8
make (X)
Hansoku-
Fall backwards PX9 18.2.2 9
make (X)
Hansoku-
Drive into the mat PX10 18.2.2 10
make (X)
Hansoku-
Disregard instructions PX11 18.2.2 11
make (X)
Hansoku-
Unnecessary remarks PX12 18.2.2 12
make (X)
Hansoku-
Hard/metallic object PX13 18.2.2 13
make (X)
Hansoku-
Action against spirit of judo PX14 18.2.2 14
make (X)
Undetermined P99 Shido, Hasoku-make (H) or (X)

Others
Bye BYE
Fusen-gachi FUS
Kiken-gachi KIK
Undetermined UND
Undetermined katame-waza UNK
Undetermined nage-waza UNN
Yusei-gachi YUS

page - 221
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

G1.4 Terminology
Term Description
Backnumber Affixed on the back of the judogi. Includes the judoka’s name and National Olympic
identification Committee (NOC) code or the IJF code if the country does not have a NOC.
Contest A contest between white and blue judoka, with one referee. A contest is run over
regular time and may be extended by a golden score.
Contest order number An incremental number for each mat within a day, regardless of the event.
Draw This is a random draw carried out by the IJF for all weight categories and team
competition before the competition starts.
Golden score An extra period of unlimited time intended to break ties if scores or penalties
are equal at the end of the contest period. Golden score can only be won by a
technical score (waza-ari or ippon) or hansoku-make (direct or by accumulative
Shido). If direct hansoku-make is given, the consequences are the same as those
in regular time.
IJF Ad Hoc The IJF Ad Hoc Commission will make a decision on any exceptional situation
Commission (unacceptable behaviour, etc.).
International An international competition is defined as a competition where two (2) or more
competition different nations take part.
Match Match is used to define the competition between both teams. Within each match
there are a number of contests (depending on the event).
Winning score The winning score is defined as the winner’s highest score, which makes the
difference from the opponent’s scores.
Winning technique The winning technique is the technique/penalty of the winning score. If there are
multiple equal winning scores, no winning technique is shown.

page - 222
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

page - 223
DOCUMENT
CONTROL
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

H1.1 Version History

12 March 2024 approved version
Text in red has been added. Text with a line through it has been deleted.

Global Changes
Unless starting a sentence national federation, continental union, multi-sport games,
round robin, and field of play do not have a capital letter.

Judobase starts with a capital as it is a name (proper noun).

General Secretary changed to General Secretariat or Secretary General depending on

the context.

IJF Disciplinary Commission has been changed to IJF Disciplinary Committee.

Abbreviations are written fully, followed by the abbreviation, the first time they are used
in a section.

Publicity has been changed to advertising.

National Olympic Committee has been abbreviated to NOC.

1/16 has had 9th place added, 1/32 has had 17th place added.

Period 1 is renamed to 100% period

Period 2 is renamed to 50% period

Mixed team is now mixed teams.

IJF Supervisor(s) has been updated to IJF Referee Supervisor(s).

The IJF Referee Supervisor and/or IJF Referee Commissioners is now the IJF Head
Referee Director(s) and/or the IJF Referee Supervisor(s).

PRELUDE
For translations of Japanese terms refer to Appendix G.

Exceptional Situations
Any situation that is not covered by the International Judo Federation (IJF) Sport and
Organisation Rules (SOR) shall be dealt with by the IJF Executive Committee.

Abbreviations
IRT - IJF Refugee Team
N/A - Not applicable

page - 225
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Additional Resources
IJF Disciplinary Code: www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3
IJF Code of Ethics - www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3
IJF Education and Coaching Commission documents: www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/11
IJF Governance Policies: www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3
IJF Referee Commission documents: www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/23
IJF Sport Commission documents: https://www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/25

Contacts
Presidential Office: [email protected]
Secretary General and General Secretariat: [email protected]
Anti-doping: [email protected]
Finance: [email protected]
JudoTV: [email protected]
Judobase: [email protected]
Media: [email protected]
Medical: [email protected]
World ranking list cadets: [email protected]
World ranking list juniors: [email protected]
World ranking list seniors: [email protected]

Clean and Safe Judo

Abuse, harassment, neglect and negligence can be reported here:
https://reportabuse.judobase.org/form

Antidoping rule violations can be reported here:

https://reportdoping.judobase.org/form

Integrity and compliance reports on match fixing and competition manipulation can be
reported here:
https://reportintegrity.judobase.org/form

Websites
www.ijf.org
My.ijf.org
Judobase.ijf.org
JudoTV.com

Comments and feedback can be sent to [email protected]

Changes from previous version (24 April 2023) can be found at the end of this
document.

SECTION 1
1.1 Preamble and Basic Principles
The International Judo Federation (IJF) Sport and Organisation Rules (SOR) in
conjunction with the IJF statutes, finance rules regulation, contract with the relevant
national judo federation (hereafter referred to as national federation) and the IJF Event
Organisation Guide (EOG), are the binding documents for the holding of the events on
the IJF World Judo Tour (WJT). For all events on the WJT the IJF has final appellate
jurisdiction.

page - 226
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Specific supplemental procedures will be issued for the holding of judo competitions at
the Summer Olympic, and Youth Olympic Games and other multi-sport games.

Events will be allocated to host organising committees following the IJF Statutes Article
19.

The IJF Executive Committee shall allocate events to host organising committees. The
organisation of any world championships is the concern of the following bodies: the
IJF, the continental union to which the organising national federation belongs and the
national federation, which has been commissioned by the IJF Executive Committee
to be the host. The continental union is consulted in any questions and supports both
the IJF and the national federation. The national federation must name an Organising
Committee to deal with the organisation of the event.

The IJF shall accept control over regional other judo competitions whenever this is so
directed by the Executive Committee or the IJF Congress. This requires adherence to
the above rules and documents.

In such judo competitions refereeing and technical organisation shall may be dealt with
by the continental union or regional body and supervised by the officials nominated by
the IJF.

Persons A national federation or individual taking part in the sport of judo are deemed to
have agreed to and be bound by this SOR and if found not following the rules may face
disciplinary action.

1.1.1 Behaviour at IJF Events

Disciplinary action will be taken against any athlete refusing to leave the tatami. If a
coach is present in the coaches’ chair he must intervene otherwise he will also face
disciplinary action. If a coach is not present in the chair the IJF Education and Coaching
Commission will intervene to remove the athlete from the tatami.

1.2 Clean Judo

The IJF Disciplinary Code and IJF Code of Ethics can be found here:
www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3.

1.2.1 Disciplinary Committee

The IJF Disciplinary Committee will take sanctions in compliance with the IJF
Disciplinary Code (www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3).

A report of the incident and final decision should be sent to the IJF Disciplinary
Committee, c/o the IJF General Secretariat ([email protected]), within three days of the date of
the incident.

If an individual disagrees with a decision, a written appeal may be submitted to the

IJF Disciplinary Committee, c/o the IJF General Secretariat ([email protected]), within one
calendar month from the incident date.

1.2.2 Match Fixing and Competition Manipulation

If in IJF events (individual or team), an athlete is injured or ill before a contest and needs
to withdraw they must have a medical certificate from the IJF Medical Commissioner.

page - 227
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

1.2.3 Policy for Safeguarding Athletes and Other Participants from Harassment
and Abuse

The IJF Policy for Safeguarding Athletes and Other Participants from Harassment and
Abuse This policy applies to all persons affiliated with the IJF including athletes and
can be found here: https://www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3

“Harassment” or “harassment and abuse” includes: physical or psychological abuse

and sexual abuse (which can be a form of physical and/or psychological abuse).

“Physical or psychological abuse”

“Sexual abuse”

Cases of harassment and abuse can be reported on the Clean Judo platform and
will be investigated by the IJF Disciplinary Committee in compliance with the IJF
Disciplinary Code (www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3).

1.3 Insurance and Civil Liability

Each national federation is directly responsible for its athletes (including the control
of non-pregnancy and the control of gender). It must assume all responsibility for
accident, and health and civil liability insurance as well as civil liabilities for everyone
under their charge during all IJF events for everyone under their charge.
The entity contractually bound to the IJF for the organisation of the event shall take
all necessary actions to provide insurance coverage against civil liability for the entire
duration.

It is the responsibility of the national federation to ensure that in addition to their

normal insurance they have sufficient insurance in place to cover any SARS CoV-
2 (COVID-19) or its variants or communicable disease, related costs, including
repatriation.

The LOC of the event and the IJF accept no liability for any claims of injury, illness or
death arising from the travelling to and the participation in this event nor any claims
relating to the cancellation of the event or medical costs related to illness, due to
SARS CoV-2 (COVID-19) or its variants or other communicable disease(s), that may
affect a participant during the event.

1.4 Gender Control

Control of an athlete’s gender is the responsibility of The member national federation
shall be responsible for identifying and registering the athlete’s gender. The IJF
will apply the current IOC recommendation. Any decisions of a member national
federation concerning an athlete’s gender, including but not limited to the change
of gender must be communicated sent immediately to the IJF President General
Secretariat, by email ([email protected]).

Complaint by a national federation, a continental union, or a member of the IJF

Executive Committee concerning an athlete’s gender may be filed within 21 days from
the effective date of the change of gender under the IJF Athlete Eligibility Regulations
(found in IJF Governance Policies - www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3). Complaints must
be sent to the IJF General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]).

page - 228
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Based on the official If the complaint concerns a change of gender, the IJF Executive
Committee will consult the Independent Experts appointed in accordance with the
IJF Athlete Eligibility Regulations (found in IJF Governance Policies - www.ijf.org/
ijf/documents/3) and decide if it is necessary to initiate the investigation regarding
the compliance with the eligibility conditions set forth by the IJF Athlete Eligibility
Regulations (found in IJF Governance Policies - www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3). decide
if it is necessary to follow up on this complaint and to bring it before the Gender Control
Commission. The IJF Executive Committee can also call out to the member national
federation of the athlete concerned so that they decide on the gender of the athlete
concerned.

The decision of the IJF Executive Committee under this Section 1.4 may be appealed in
accordance with the IJF Statutes.
The Gender Control Commission is composed of a doctor competent in the field of
gender reassignment, a jurist, and a member of the IJF Executive Committee appointed
by the IJF President.

This Commission will be able to call on experts recognised in this field.

All decisions made by a member national federation about an athlete’s gender must be
submitted exclusively by the athlete concerned to the IJF Gender Control Commission in
the case of a contestation.

The IJF Gender Control Commission will have the full authority to ask all those
concerned for any documents or information necessary for the hearing of the case
which has been referred. The IJF Gender Control Commission will establish an internal
regulation to define the progress of the procedure that must guarantee confidentiality of
the procedure and respect data protection and the private lives of those concerned.

The decision of the IJF Executive Committee not to follow up on an official complaint
as well as the decisions of the IJF Gender Control Commission can be submitted
exclusively by way of appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne,
Switzerland, that will decide on litigation according to the code of arbitration concerning
sport.

The delay of appeal is twenty-one days from receipt of the decision being the subject
of the appeal. The panel will be composed of only one judge. The language of the
arbitration will be English.

1.7 Athlete Nationality

The athletes must be of the same nationality as a national of the country of the national
federation for which they have been entered that inscribes him for the competition. The
evidence of citizenship nationality shall be the production of a valid passport issued
by the represented country. Persons appointed by the Executive Committee of the IJF
shall verify the citizenship nationality of the athletes. Should the athlete be unable to
produce their passport a decision will be made on whether to accept an alternative form
of identification.

In the following cases, procedures must be applied:

a) Where the competitions are being held in a country in which the residents do not hold
passports while in that country.

page - 229
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

b) Where there is a possible problem of “joint citizenship”, e.g., Puerto Rico an

acceptable substitute for the passport will be a letter or certificate from the athlete’s
National Olympic Committee (NOC) or, if there is no such body, from the National
Sports Authority confirming the athlete’s residence in that country and the citizenship.

If an athlete has multiple citizenships, they may compete for only one country.

Where the national federation does not have a passport with that nationality, the
passport issued by their Government will be accepted (e.g., American Samoa (USA),
Aruba (Netherlands), Cook Islands (New Zealand), Curacao (Netherlands), Guam
(USA), Sint Maarten (Netherlands), Puerto Rico (USA) and US Virgin Islands (USA)).
If an athlete has multiple citizenships, they may compete for only one country.

Athletes who have permission to take part in IJF events under the IJF SOR rule 1.7.2
who do not have a valid passport issued by the represented country must present either
a photographic identity or refugee travel document and the IJF authorisation letter.

1.7.1 Change of Athlete Nationality

An athlete who has represented one country in:
• Regional competitions recognised by the IJF
• Continental or regional Games and multi-sport games (such as African Games, Asian
Games, Commonwealth Games, European Games, Francophone Games, Islamic
Games, Mediterranean Games, Pan American Games, Youth Olympic Games)
• Other competitions recognised by the IJF
and who wants to change has changed his nationality or acquired a new nationality may
represent his new country provided that:

at least three years have passed since the athlete last represented his former country.

a) The two (2) national federations (current country and new country) concerned
agree, they may request the IJF to shorten the period of three years or even to cancel
the duration completely (see Olympic Charter, Rule 41 and the Byelaw to Rule 41).
Thus, the IJF can’t shorten the three years’ period without written agreement from both
national federations concerned and the athlete having a valid passport for the new
country (refer to 1.7.1.1), or

b) At least three years have passed since the athlete last represented his former country
(refer to 1.7.1.2).

Thus, the IJF can’t shorten the three years’ period without written agreement from both
national federations concerned and the athlete having a valid passport for the new
country (refer to 1.7.1.2).

*Veterans, military, and kata participants are excluded from this rule and can change
without waiting the three-year period. nationality at any time provided they have a
passport for the new country. Athletes should contact the new federation to have a
profile made in Judobase for their new nationality. The new national federation must
inform the IJF General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]).

For participation in a specific event the request of nationality change must be sent 21
days before the registration deadline. If the request is not sent on time the IJF cannot
guarantee that it will be processed on time.

page - 230
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Junior and younger immigrant athletes do not need to follow the change of nationality
process if the criteria in section 1.7.2.2 is met.

If the two (2) National Federations (current country and new country) concerned agree,
they may request the IJF to shorten the period of three years or even to cancel the
duration completely (see Olympic Charter, Rule 41 and the Byelaw to Rule 41). Thus,
the IJF can’t shorten the three years’ period without written agreement from both
National Federations concerned and the athlete having a valid passport for the new
country

1.7.1.1 Change of Athlete Nationality for a Period of Less than Three Years
The IJF must approve the request to shorten the three year period so an athlete cannot
can represent a new national federation without the approval of the IJF.

The request to shorten the three-year period shall following documents must be sent
to the IJF General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]) via email by the new national
federation to the IJF General Secretariat ([email protected]) and must include the following
documents:
• Letter (not older than three (3) months) from the President of the national federation
(the current country) certifying the absence of objection to the change of the
nationality of the concerned athlete.
• Letter (not older than three (3) months) from the President of the national federation
(the new country) authorising the athlete to represent them in international
competitions.
• Letter (not older than three (3) months) from the athlete (or parent/legal guardian if
the athlete is a minor), who has already represented one country, giving evidence of
their wish to represent their new national federation. A copy of the athlete passport
proving the nationality of the new country.
On receipt of a complete file Once all documents have been received and verified
the IJF General Secretariat will examine it and send it out to the for an IJF Executive
Committee vote for approval. If the majority of the IJF Executive Committee approves
the request, the IJF General Secretary confirms the acceptance of the
application to the concerned party. Any athlete disrespecting this rule may be subject to
disciplinary measures. Following the vote the IJF General Secretariat will inform both
national federations of the result.

1.7.1.2 Change of Athlete Nationality after a Period of Three Years or Longer

An athlete cannot represent a new National Federation without informing the IJF even if
three years or longer have passed since the athlete competed for their previous National
Federation.

The IJF must be informed officially by the new National Federation via email to both the
IJF General Secretariat - [email protected] and Registration Management - [email protected].
This must be done also for veterans, military and kata participants.
The information must include the following documents:
The IJF must be informed if an athlete wants to represent a new national federation if a
period of three years or longer have passed since he competed for his previous national
federation.

page - 231
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The following documents must be sent to the IJF General Secretariat, by email (gs@ijf.
org):
• Letter (not older than three (3) months) from the President of the new national
federation (the new country) authorising the athlete to represent them in international
competitions.
• Letter (not older than three (3) months) from the athlete (or parent/legal guardian if
the athlete is a minor), who has represented one country, giving evidence of their
wish to represent their new national federation.
• A copy of the athlete passport proving the nationality of the new country.

On receipt of a complete file Once all documents have been received and verified the
IJF General Secretary will examine it and send it out to the IJF Executive Committee
for information. The IJF General Secretary and will confirm the nationality change to the
new national federation, with the former national federation in copy.

1.7.2 Special Circumstances

For events organised by the IJF or under its auspices, the IJF Executive Committee,
to protect the interest of the athlete, can authorise that the athlete can compete under
the IJF or a neutral flag for any reason (for example: non-official refugee status of
the athlete, non-recognition of the National Olympic Committee (NOC) by the IOC,
suspension of the national federation, unable to represent their national federation, etc.).

Applications should be sent to the IJF General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]). If

the application is approved the athlete is responsible to ensure they have their own
accident, health and civil liabilities insurance.

1.7.2.1 Athletes with an Official Refugee Status under Host Country

Mutli-sport games etc. are not included as those events have specific rules regarding
nationality.

The national federation requests must be sent, with the official refugee status
documents, to the IJF General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]). If the documents sent
are compliant, the agreement will be automatically given by the IJF Secretary General
following confirmation by the IJF President.

All documents relating to the new status and change request must be submitted to the
IJF General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]), within a deadline of at least 15 days
prior to the closing date of registration for a certain event.

1.7.2.2 IJF Refugee Team

Athletes with an official refugee status, competing as part of the IJF Refugee Team
(IRT) may take part in events provided that they have an IJF authorisation letter.
Athletes with an official refugee status competing under the IJF flag They may take
part in a continental championships in the continent that they are a refugee in. To be
authorised to compete in the said event, they must have already participated in an
international competition (minimum continental cup) and be insured.

1.7.2.3.2 Junior and Younger Immigrants

Junior men and women, (aged 15 to 20 years in the calendar year) and younger foreign
athletes living in a host country can participate in their host country national junior and
younger championships and thus qualify themselves for IJF or continental union junior
and cadet competitions.

page - 232
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

They can be registered, by the national federation of the host country if they meet the
following requirements:
• To prove their residency in the host country (at least 1 year three (3) months).
• To prove the integration of their parents or legal guardians in the host country (at least
1 year three (3) months).
• To prove their integration in the school or university system or proof of employment
(at least 1 year three (3) months).
• Agreement of the athlete.
• Authorisation of the parent/guardian (if athlete is a minor).

In certain cases authorisation may be requested from the national federation of origin. If
the athlete has any world ranking points these will be kept.

If the national federations of host countries wish to register these athletes, they must
send their request each year to the IJF General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]), with
the above-mentioned documents. Additionally, the national federations shall also attach
the agreement of the athlete and the authorisation of the parents/guardians if minors.

The IJF will review the submitted documents and if deemed compliant, the IJF will
approve the request. and The IJF General Secretary Secretariat will reply authorising
the athlete to compete under the new host country flag in cadet and junior events for a
period of one (1) year. send a certificate for the registration in Judobase.

In case of approval, the concerned athlete will compete under their host country flag.
For participation in the world championships junior, as senior World Ranking List (WRL)
points are given, the decision will be made on a case-by-case basis by the IJF Head
Sport Director.

Should the athlete wish to return to his country of origin, or should he change residence
to another host country, he is free to do so and take any ranking points with him, upon
submission of the documents proving the relocation to the IJF General Secretariat at
[email protected].

Should the athlete wish to return to representing his country of origin he must inform
both national federations involved and the IJF General Secretariat, by email (gs@ijf.
org). If the athlete has any world ranking points these will be kept.

Should the athlete change residence to another host country, he should repeat the
application process by submitting the documents proving the relocation to the IJF
General Secretariat, by email ([email protected]). If the athlete has any world ranking points
these will be kept.

SECTION 2
2.2.3 moved to 6.2.2
2.2.4 renumbered to 2.2.3
2.2.5 moved to 6.2.3

page - 233
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

2.1 Competition Format and Schedules for the IJF World Judo Tour
IJF Events planned for 6 days (World Championships Seniors)
Day 1 -48 kg, -52 kg -60 kg
Day 2 -57 kg -66 kg, -73 kg
Day 3 -63 kg -81 kg
Day 4 -70 kg, -78 kg 90 kg
Day 5 +78 kg -100 kg, +100 kg
Day 6 Mixed Teams

2.5.5.1 Round Robin Rules for Individual Events

The following round robin rules are used to define the winners classification of each
position are used:

Rule 1. Number of contests won wins: if the number of contests won are equal, then rule
2 must be followed.

Rule 2. Sum of all points: if there are an equal number of wins, the sum of all points for
scores: ippon/waza-ari-awasete-ippon = 10, waza-ari = 1. All scores achieved will be
counted for both the winner and loser for each contest in the category. An athlete can
get a maximum of 10 points per contest.
Points are same regardless of if they are achieved in the regular contest time or during
golden score. If the sum of all points are equal, then rule 3 must be followed.

Rule 3. Direct comparison: if two (2) athletes have an equal number of wins and sum of
all points for scores, the athlete who won the contest between them is defined as better.
If there is still equality rule 4 must be followed.

Rule 4. Direct comparison not possible: if there are an equal number of wins and no
direct comparison possible because of “beating in circle”: the shortest accumulated time
of all winning contests will decide. If there is still equality rule 5 must be followed.
Rule 5. If there is a case of equal time: weight at the official weigh-in. The athlete with
the lower weight is defined as better.

Rule 6. In case of same weight at the official weigh-in: Decision contests: in case of
equal time a new draw will be performed between the involved athletes. A knockout
system between the involved athletes will be used, applying the WRL seeding rules. A
new draw must be performed.

2.5.5.2 Round Robin Rules for Team Events

The following Round Robin rules to define the winners are used:
Rule 1. Number of matches won: if the number of matches won are equal, then rule 2
must be followed.

Rule 2. Number of contests won: if the number of contests won are equal, then rule 3
must be followed.
Rule 3. Golden score contests: three different categories will be drawn for three golden
score contests (match A v B, match A v C and match B v C). Any category where both
athletes are missing must not be included in the draw for that match.

page - 234
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Any category where there is only one athlete must be included in the draw for that
match. All contests must be fought to decide first, second and third place. If the number
of contests won are equal, then rule 4 must be followed.

Rule 4. Equal wins: if there are an equal number of wins, then rule 3 must be repeated
until there is a winning team.

Pool Elimination system with Gold, silver Individuals

two (2) pools of two (2) single and one First, second and one third
contests/matches, then a bronze place.
contest/match between the
4* two (2) losers of each pool for Mixed teams
the single bronze medal and First, second, one third
a contest/match between the and one fifth place.
two (2) winners of each pool
for the gold and silver medals.

2.7 Competition System for Mixed Teams and Team Events

Match is used to define the competition between both teams. Within each match there
are a number of contests (depending on the event).

2.7.1 Regulations for Mixed Teams Events

For other rounds it must be returned 5 minutes after receiving the list from competition
management the IJF Sport Commission .Once it is returned to competition management
the IJF Sport Commission it cannot be changed.

Example: If one team has one (1) category empty: 1:0

During the contests, the non-competing athletes must stay within a marked area on the
field of play behind the coaches’ chair. Reserve athletes must not enter the field of play.

If an NOC qualifies for the Olympic Games mixed teams event, all athletes who qualified
for the individual competition can take part in the mixed teams competition, up to a
maximum of seven (7) women and seven (7) men.

2.7.2 Regulations for Female and Male Team Events

For other rounds it must be returned 5 minutes after receiving the list from competition
management the IJF Sport Commission .Once it is returned to competition management
the IJF Sport Commission it cannot be changed.

Example: If one team has one (1) category empty: 1:0

During the contests, the non-competing athletes must stay within a marked area on the
field of play behind the coaches’ chair. Reserve athletes must not enter the field of play.

2.8.2 Transportation
Travel information must be uploaded to my.ijf.org according to the hotel reservation
arrival and departure dates. If the delegation misses the transport deadline and travel
information is not uploaded airport, train or bus station transfers are NOT guaranteed
and a fee may be charged by the LOC.

page - 235
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

2.8.3 Accommodation
The national federation President and referee nominated by the IJF is are not included
in this calculation.

The hotel prices are not guaranteed after the reservation deadline and delegations
requesting accommodation late may be subject to a price increase.

2.8.4 Training
Ice and water (in sealed bottles, cans or containers up to 500 ml), with a low sodium
and/or chloride content (below 200 mg/l) must be provided for delegations at all training
venues for all training days. This rule applies to warm-up areas, all training areas,
medical rooms and doping control rooms.

SECTION 3
3.1 IJF World Ranking Lists
The IJF produces World Ranking Lists (WRL) for individuals and mixed teams. These
WRL lists are used for seeding athletes/teams in the draw for ranking events. There is
also an IJF Nation WRL which shows the total ranking points from each WRL per nation.

In the individual competition, the points are allocated to the athlete in the weight
category in which they participate and cannot be transferred to another weight category.
In the mixed teams competition, the points are allocated to the respective nation.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the Continental Championships Seniors and Mixed
Teams 2020 and 2021 are counted as a single event held in 2021, only the best result
of the two is taken into consideration and expires as if it was held in 2021. These points
will expire completely on 1 May 2023. These WRL lists are used for seeding athletes/
teams in the draw for ranking events.

The Continental Championships Seniors Individual and Mixed Teams 2022 will be
treated as if they were held in week number 17 regardless of the week number that they
are organised in (points are added when competition is held). The points reduction will
be done on Monday of week 18, 2023 (50%) and week 18, 2024 (0%).

The Continental Championships Seniors Individual and Mixed Teams 2023 and 2024 will
be treated as if they were held in week 30 regardless of the week number that they are
organised in (points are added when competition is held). The points reduction will be
done on Monday of week 31, 2024 (after the Olympic Games) (50%) and week 31, 2025
(0%). Please note that these will move to period 50% on week 18 2024, keeping their
100% value.
The Continental Championships Seniors Individual and Mixed Teams 2024 will be
treated as if they were held in week number 17 regardless of the week number that they
are organised in (points are added when competition is held). The points reduction will
be done on Monday of week 18, 2025 (50%) and week 18, 2026 (0%).

In 2025, the Continental Championships Seniors and Mixed Teams 2023 and 2024 will
be treated as if they were held in week 17 regardless of the week number that they are
organised in. The period change will be done on Monday of week 18, 2025.

page - 236
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Continental Championships Seniors and Mixed Teams Table changed to this one:

For the equal treatment of all continents, points will be handled as follows, regardless of
the week that the competition takes place (points are added when competition is held).

3.5 Additional Rules

If an athlete on the IJF World Ranking List changes their nationality, they will keep all
WRL points they will keep all the previously acquired points in all the categories where
they competed before. If they decide to participate in a new different category, or if there
is an age class change, they will start from zero.
If an athlete on any IJF WRL changes their gender, they will lose all WRL points.

An international competition is defined as a competition where two (2) or more different

nations take part.

• Further violations will be referred to the IJF Disciplinary Committee.

SECTION 4
4.1 Participation Rules for IJF WJT Events
In addition to the above coaches must have:
From 1 September 2024 to coach in Grand Prix, Grand Slam, Masters, World
Championships Seniors Individual and Mixed Teams and Olympic Games a coach must
have either the IJF Academy Level 1 Instructor, the Undergraduate certificate Judo
Instructor (UCJI), or the Master Coach certification.

page - 237
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

• From 1 January 2026 to coach in World Championships Cadets Individual and Mixed
Teams and World Championships Juniors Individual and Mixed Teams, a coach must
have either the IJF Academy Level 1 Instructor, the Undergraduate certificate Judo
Instructor (UCJI), or the Master Coach certification.

Coaches at the World Championships Veterans are exempt from this certification rule.

In addition, to the above athletes must:

• Meet the IJF Athlete Eligibility Regulations (found in the IJF Governance Policies:
www.ijf.org/ijf/documents/3)
• Have sufficient technical knowledge (know the terminology and can execute all the
techniques in Appendix G) and understand fully the IJF sport and refereeing rules.

4.2 Entries for IJF WJT Events

Only entries of from member national judo federations will be accepted.

All participating delegates must have a Judobase profile and a valid IJF card and be
inscribed in the event in Judobase by their national federation by the event deadline.

There are two types of IJF cards:

• IJF international cards (renewable every two years) can be used for all functions
(athlete, coach, team official, doctor etc.) at IJF World Judo Tour events including
world championships kata and veterans.
• IJF veterans/kata card (valid for life) can be used for all functions (athlete, coach,
team official, doctor etc.) at the world championships kata and veterans. It cannot be
used at other IJF World Judo Tour events.

Requests from each of the national federation involved must be sent to the IJF General
Secretariat, by email ([email protected]). The coach must then be inscribed in the event for
each country and an explanation sent to the LOC informing them that IJF permission
has been given in order for them not to charge twice for the accommodation etc. and
also inform them who is paying for the accommodation.

4.4 Number of Entries

World Masters
If, in a category, there are athletes known to be suspended for disciplinary reason(s)
and/or under voluntary/obligatory/optional provisional suspension for doping reason(s)
and/or serving ineligibility for anti-doping rule violation(s) they will NOT participate and
the next athlete(s) in the list from position number 37 and below will be invited.

Registration Under the IJF Flag

There is no limit to the number of athletes participating under the IJF flag, this includes
IJF Refugee Team athletes competing with the three-letter code IRT.

4.5 Accreditation
At World Championships and whenever it is necessary to verify the face, age and/or
nationality of an athlete, a member of the IJF Sport Commission or its representative will
check photographic proof of identity.

Accepted documents are a valid the passport or a valid national identity card showing
the same nationality as the country of issue. Both documents must be of the nationality
that the athlete is representing in the competition. A high-quality photocopy or scan will
also be accepted, if, for a valid reason, these documents are not available.

page - 238
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

A travel document which can resemble a passport will not be accepted.

Athletes who have permission to take part in IJF events under the IJF SOR rule 1.7.2
who do not have a valid passport issued by the represented country must present either
a photographic identity or refugee travel document and the IJF authorisation letter.

SECTION 6
6.2 Official Weigh-in Rules
The unofficial weigh-in will start 40 minutes before the official weigh-in and end 10
minutes before the official weigh-in. The official weigh-in period will be between 30 – 60
minutes, the exact times will be published in the event outlines.

Athletes are allowed to check their weight on the official weigh-in scales from 40-10
minutes before the official weigh-in commences.

6.2.1 Individual Events Official Weigh-In

Junior and senior athletes must be within the weight limits of a category in which they
are inscribed (see 2.2.1), there is no additional weight tolerance.

6.2.2 Mixed Teams Official Weigh-in

Athletes competing on the last day of the individual event that precedes a mixed teams
event do not have to pass the mixed teams weigh-in if they are inscribed in the plus
categories. Athletes inscribed in the minus categories MUST weigh-in and a +5% weight
tolerance will be given.

IJF mixed An athlete competing in An athlete competing An athlete competing

teams these categories in the in these mixed teams in these mixed teams
event individual competition categories MUST weigh- categories DOES
the day before the mixed in (+5% tolerance will be NOT need to weigh-in
teams event must follow given)
the rules in the next
columns
Cadets Women: -70 kg, +70 kg Women: -48 kg, -63 kg Women: +63 kg
Men: -90 kg, +90 kg Men: -60 kg, -81 kg Men: +81 kg
Juniors Women: -78 kg, +78 kg Women: -57 kg, -70 kg Women: +70 kg
Men: -100 kg, +100 kg Men: -73 kg, -90 kg Men: +90 kg
Seniors Women: +78 kg Women: -57 kg, -70 kg Women: +70 kg
Men: -100 kg, +100 kg Men: -73 kg, -90 kg Men: +90 kg

The IJF Sport Commission will arrange the weigh-in after the athlete has finished
competing in the individual event.
6.2.3 Female and Male Teams Official Weigh-in
The athletes must be within the weight limits of the category in which they are inscribed.

There is a +5% tolerance for athletes who competed in the preceding individual
competition, if applicable, (they must have passed the official weigh-in for the
individual competition) and NO tolerance for athletes who are only inscribed for the
team competition or who did not pass the official weigh-in for the preceding individual
competition (if applicable).

page - 239
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Athletes competing on the last day of the individual event that precedes a team event do
not have to pass the teams weigh-in if they are inscribed in the plus categories. Athletes
inscribed in the minus categories MUST weigh-in and a +5% weight tolerance will be
given.

The IJF Sport Commission will arrange the weigh-in after the athlete has finished
competing in the individual event. The details of the weigh-in will be described in the
outlines for the event.

6.3 Official Weigh-in Procedure

Procedure:
• Access to the weigh-in rooms is restricted based on gender. For example, only male
coaches, team officials, athletes, and officials are allowed in the men’s official weigh-
in room and vice versa. All coaches and other team delegates must leave the weigh-
in room before the start of the unofficial weigh-in and may not return until the end of
the official weigh-in.
• The weigh-in should have a calm and quiet atmosphere to ensure a smooth and
quick process. Athletes should remain quiet throughout the process unless asked a
question by a weigh-in official.
• To ensure a fast and smooth process, before the start of the official weigh-in athletes
should stand in line in their underclothing with their documents ready.
• Athletes can stand on the scales only once during the official weigh-in period.
• Athletes shall bring to the weigh-in their IJF accreditation card issued for the
competition and photographic proof of their identity. Accepted documents are a
valid their passport or an official identification document with photo. The passport
or official identification document must be or a valid national identity card showing
the same nationality as the country of issue. The document presented must be the
same nationality that the athlete is representing in the competition. A travel document
which can resemble a passport will not be accepted. Athletes who have permission
to take part in IJF events under rule 1.7.2 who do not have a valid passport issued by
the represented country must present either a photographic identity or refugee travel
document and the IJF authorisation letter. Athletes shall present both all documents
to the official who will verify their identity.
• Athletes can stand on the scales only once during the official weigh-in period.

6.4 Random Weigh-in

The weight of the athlete cannot be more than 5 % higher than the official maximum
weight limit of the category (refer to table 6.4.4: Weight Categories for the Random
Weigh-in with Tolerances).

SECTION 7
7.1 Coaches’ Code of Conduct
The IJF Ad Hoc Commission may consider sending a report to the IJF Secretary
General calling for the opening of a disciplinary session.
The coach who enters the field of play with the athlete is the only coach allowed to sit in
the coach’s chair, he cannot be replaced by another coach during the contest.

7.3 Contest Review Process

A coach can request to review a contest at the end of the preliminaries or final block.

page - 240
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

SECTION 8
8.4 Warm-Up Area
Once athletes finish their competition, they should leave the main warm-up area, taking
their belongings, and ensure that the used area remains clean.

Ice and water (in sealed bottles, cans or containers up to 500 ml), with a low sodium
and/or chloride content (below 200 mg/l), must be provided for delegations during the
entire competition. This rule applies to warm-up areas, all training areas, medical rooms
and doping control rooms.

Drinks and snacks are allowed on the resting area. Main meals must take place in the
delegations’ lounge.

The IJF is committed to helping athletes on their return to competition following childbirth
and will do our best to support those mothers who are breastfeeding babies. Children
are NOT allowed in any of the athlete areas unless it has been approved by the IJF. A
detailed request should be sent to the IJF General Secretariat, by email
([email protected]). Any relevant venue policies will be considered and if approved there must
be no disturbance to other athletes and delegates and if this happens, the access will be
withdrawn.

Media with photographic or television cameras may be given permission to film in the
warm-up area.

Media with photographic or television cameras may be given permission to film in the
warm-up area. However, this is not compulsory and is subject to the capacity of the
warm-up area and the feedback from the delegations. Requests to film and take photos
in the warm-up area must be sent at least one week prior to the first day of competition
by the media at [email protected], and must be coordinated by the LOC media department,
under the supervision of the IJF media team. At any time to access to the warm-up area
can be restricted or cancelled. Full access all day is not possible, time slots must be set
up. Interviews in the warm-up area are not permitted as well as tripods.

8.7 Field of Play and Competition Area

To not disturb the running of the competition, delegates should not enter the technical
table unless invited by IJF personnel.

When using a platform, the exterior tatami safety area must be a minimum of 4 m. If the
tatami needs to have microphones installed between them then this should be done by
contractors.

8.9 Media
All media matters are the responsibility of the IJF Media Director. It is expressly
forbidden for all media including photographers to live stream at any time during the
draw, competition or any other official IJF activity., unless specifically authorised,
following proper request, by email to [email protected].

They are not allowed to film, or photograph injured or bleeding athletes anywhere in the
venue. Mobile devices must not be used for any function while mat side.

Media are not allowed to access the warm-up area unless special access has been
granted from the IJF. This must be proposed and granted by the IJF at least two (2)
weeks before the competition.

page - 241
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Any member of the media who does not follow the above risks losing their accreditation
and access to the competition.

8.10 Awarding Ceremonies

In IJF events the awarding ceremony area should be set up on the same side of the field
of play as the athlete entry.

APPENDIX A
A1.2 Competition Rules for Veterans
The IJF competition rules will apply except for modifications made to age divisions
(Section A1.4), category combining (Section A1.7), and contest and golden score
duration (Section A1.6) and round robin golden score (Section A1.14).

A1.3 Eligibility to Participate

• Check in at accreditation (see schedule of accreditation in the event outlines).
• Provide photographic proof of their identity and date of birth. Accepted documents
are using a valid current passport or a current valid national identity card showing
the same nationality as the country of issue. The document presented must be the
same nationality that the athlete is representing in the competition. A travel document
which can resemble a passport will not be accepted. Athletes who have permission
to take part in IJF events under rule 1.7.2 who do not have a valid passport issued by
the represented country must present either a photographic identity or refugee travel
document and the IJF authorisation letter.

The nationality of athletes will be taken as that which is indicated in their current
passport or current national identity card. Athletes may be a member of a national
federation that is not the same nation as their passport/national identity card.

Coaches at the World Championships Veterans do not need to have the IJF Academy
Level 1 Instructor, the Undergraduate certificate Judo Instructor (UCJI), or the Master
Coach certification.

To compete, athletes must have a medical certificate issued by an authorised body

of the country they represent. It must be valid for the day(s) of participation in the
competition, not older than one (1) year and can be easily read if hand-written.
The medical certificate must be uploaded to my.ijf.org by the athlete’s national judo
federation.

For information about the medical certificate contact [email protected]

A1.3.1 Event Inscription

All participating delegates must have a valid IJF veteran card, and be inscribed in
judobase (https://admin.judobase.org) see 4.2 Entries for IJF World Judo Tour (WJT)
Events.
.
Inscription must be done in Judobase by the national federation by the event deadline
which will be published in the event outlines.

IJF nationality rules (IJF SOR, section 1.7) must be respected, and athletes must be
of the same nationality as the national federation for which they have been entered for
the competition. The evidence of nationality shall be the production of a valid passport
issued by the represented country.

page - 242
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Individual athletes and national clubs must contact the national federation to be
inscribed. Inscriptions on the spot can only be done with the written permission of the
national federation.

There is no limit to the number of athletes from the same country that can be inscribed
in a category.

A1.14 Round Robin Golden Score

If a round robin contest goes into golden score, an athlete can hold osaekomi-waza until
for ippon.

A1.145 Awarding of Medals for Veterans

• Two athletes – two medals awarded only if the second placed athlete has won at least
one contest. In the case of no contest won there will only be one medal awarded.
• Three athletes – three medals will be awarded only if the third-place athlete has won
at least one contest. In the case of no contest won there will only be two medals
awarded
• Four athletes – three four medals awarded
• Five athletes – three four medals awarded
• Six or more athletes – four medals awarded

APPENDIX B
B1.1 Eligibility to Participate
A brown belt without an IJF label is authorised for the under 23 age category.

Seniors category:
Each national federation may enter in the competition a maximum of 10 pairs and a
maximum of 3 pairs in a kata.

Participants must be a minimum of 16 years of age in the year of the competition. They
shall have a minimum of 1st dan.

U-23 category:
Each national federation may enter in the competition a maximum of three (3) pairs in a
kata.

For the U-23 age category both tori and uke must be under 23 years old and at least 16
years old in the year of the competition. They shall have a minimum of 1st Kyu.

B1.5 Judges and the System of Judging

The IJF “2024 Criteria for Kata Evaluation” will be used to judge the kata with reference
also to the official Kodokan kata textbooks.

B1.7 Awarding Ceremony

Medals will be awarded following a performance by a pair according to standings
regardless the number of pairs.

page - 243
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

B1.10 Judogi Control

• Verification of the IJF labels (red or green), on the jacket, the trousers and the belt
(blue labels are also authorised for the belt), (SOR C1.2).
• Verification of the official IJF backnumber, the name of the athlete and the National
Olympic Committee (IOC) abbreviation on the backnumber are in accordance with
the one on the accreditation card (SOR C1.8). If the country does not have a NOC
then the three letter country code recognised by the IJF must be used.

APPENDIX C
C1.1 IJF Approved Judogi
The belt can be of a different brand that is approved by the IJF.

Female athletes shall and male athletes may also wear a short-sleeved white T-shirt,
with a round neck (see C1.1. T-shirt).

C1.1.2.1 Judogi Pre-Control

The judogi pre-control will be operated upon request of the athletes who wish to do so.

C1.1.3 Consequences of Failing Judogi Control

The LOC directly must provide a public announcement system for this purpose. If the
judogi does not comply with the current judogi rules no reserve judogi will be provided
and the athlete will be disqualified from his contest.
If the judogi does not comply with the current judogi rules the athlete will wear a
reserve judogi and cannot have a coach in the chair for that contest. The coach who
accompanied the athlete to the judogi control area is not permitted to enter the judogi
control area or to the area before the athletes’ entry.

C1.1.5 Judogi Control Procedure

1. Athletes’ judogi must be dry, exempt from stains, must not show any worn-out signs,
particularly on the collar and the lapel. If the condition of the judogi is assessed as
unsatisfactory, the athlete is disqualified from his contest. takes a reserve judogi.

10. The length of the trousers (the malleolus must be visible and accessible to check the
length of the trousers - picture 13).

11. The size of the belt (picture 12) will be checked.

C1.2 IJF Label

Each jacket and trousers must have an unforgeable red or green optical label (see
picture 1) which certifies that the judogi complies with the current IJF rules. For the belt,
blue, red and green labels are accepted.

C1.3 Location of the Manufacturer’s Logo

• On the jacket in a visible area either on the bottom, front left side, near or in the
reinforced edge or at the bottom edge and inside the advertising zone space (25 cm x
5 cm) permitted on the shoulders (see picture 2).

C1.5 Advertising
• The stripe must be calculated positioned from the lower part of the collar down the
sleeve.

page - 244
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

C1.8 Backnumber
The backnumbers must need to be clean and free from any stains or sticky residue
(picture 8).

Each athlete is obliged to have sewn on the back of his judogi a backnumber bearing
their last (family) name and the NOC abbreviation (see picture 8). If the country does not
have a NOC then the three letter country code recognised by the IJF must be used.

The last (family) name (and any part of their the athletes given (first) name) on the
backnumber must have the same letters as that registered in Judobase as this
database provides the accreditation cards, athlete name on TV graphics and scoreboard
etc.

Senior individual Olympic champions are entitled to wear a gold backnumber and
senior individual world champions a red one. Current Olympic and world champions
mixed teams must wear gold/red nation codes on their backnumbers for the day of the
mixed teams championships. This backnumber is provided by the IJF, world champions
will receive four, and Olympic champions will receive eight. This is valid only while
the athlete/nation is the current holder of the title and must be changed to the blue
backnumber if the title is lost. One month is allowed for the athlete/nation to return to the
blue backnumber.

NOTE: On the pictures, The stitches are marked in red (see picture 8) for a better
understanding of how the sewing should be done.

During the IJF competitions organised by IJF, it must include the publicity of the
competition sponsor labels must be worn on the lower part (which is different for white
and blue judogi.

C1.10 Judogi Size

The length of the judogi jacket will be measured from the front of the athlete with
sokuteiki. The length of the jacket skirt, below the belt (to be worn on the waist above
the hip bone and be tied very tightly) must measure as follows:
All athletes -73 kg*: a minimum of 20 cm
All athletes +73 kg*: a minimum of 25 cm

*-73 kg (-48, -52, -57, -63, -70, -60, -66, -73 kg), +73 kg (78, +78, -81, -90, -100, +100
kg)

Picture 12 became picture 13.

Picture 13 became picture 12.

The judoka are given one chance to adjust.

If the judogi is compliant an optical stamp will be made on the jacket.

C1.11 T-shirt (for Women)

• The national emblem representing the official identification of a nation, a NOC, or a
member national federation member of the IJF, of a surface area of 100 cm2 can be
fixed on the chest, on the left side.

page - 245
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

The wearing of a t-shirt for male athletes is authorised for medical reasons or to cover
a tattoo mentioning political, religious or sporting bodies or promoting tobacco, alcohol,
any prohibited substances listed in the Prohibited List of the World Anti-Doping Agency
or any product, property or service contrary to good moral and ethical customs, which
cannot be covered with an adhesive bandage or medical tape.

C1.12 Reserve Judogi Supply

During the competitions organised by the IJF, the LOC will supply spare reserve belts,
blue and white judogi of different sizes.
• Irregular size.
• Irregular or missing backnumber.
• Inappropriate advertising.
• Inappropriate emblem.
• Unofficial brand.
• Jacket and trousers not the same brand.
• Inappropriate colour.
• Worn out judogi.
• When the name on the backnumber is different from the one on the accreditation.
• Wet judogi.

The judogi are supplied by the organisers for a contest. The athlete must leave his
accreditation card and the part(s) of their judogi that do not comply with the rules with
the organisers in exchange for the spare reserve judogi. The reserve judogi must be
returned immediately after the contest it was used for.

C1.13 National Technical Officials’ Duties

• Check that the athlete’s identity corresponds to the backnumber and check the
sponsor’s label. The backnumber and competition sponsor label are compulsory.
• Check that the accompanying coach is in possession of an accreditation bearing the
coach logo symbol.
• Check “IJF APPROVED” label with a UV lamp. The label should be red or green.
The belt label can be red, or blue or green. Check belt ends length from central knot
(between 20 cm and 30 cm).
• Female athletes must and male athletes may wear a short sleeved white T-shirt
(round necked).
• Check that male athletes are not wearing any clothing under their jacket, on upper
body. The wearing of a t-shirt for male athletes is authorised for medical reasons or to
cover a tattoo mentioning political, religious or sporting bodies or promoting tobacco,
alcohol, any prohibited substances listed in the Prohibited List of the World Anti-
Doping Agency or any product, property or service contrary to good moral and ethical
customs, which cannot be covered with an adhesive bandage or medical tape.

APPENDIX D
Article 2
Should familiarise himself with the sound of the gong or means of indicating the end of
the contest on their tatami, and with the position of the medical table and the location of
judogi control.

Article 4
When it is not clearly apparent, t The referee may must, after the official signal, point
to the blue or white athlete (starting position) to indicate which athlete scored or was
penalised.

page - 246
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Waza-ari and shido for landing on two hands / elbows. After awarding waza-ari to
the athlete who scored, the referee will turn towards the athlete to be sanctioned with a
movement of about 45 ° and will take a step back while he has his two arms bent at 90°
parallel to the tatami, with clenched fists; returned to normal posture then he points with
the forefinger at the athlete to be penalized with shido.

To indicate to the athlete(s) that he may sit cross-legged stand at the starting
position if a lengthy delay in the contest is envisaged, the referee should signal towards
the starting position with an open hand, palm upwards.

Article 5
Permission will only be given in very exceptional circumstances, such as the necessity
to change a judogi or t-shirt which has become damaged or soiled or The same
permission will be given in the case of an accident for which the doctor is required.
This intervention will be done off the tatami, near the area itself or close to the medical
facility; the athlete will be accompanied by another referee (of the same gender as the
athlete) assigned to the specific tatami.

Article 6
Senior men and women/mixed teams: 4 minutes real contest time
Senior women/mixed teams: 4 minutes real contest time
Junior under 21 men and momen /mixed teams: 4 minutes real contest time
Cadet under 18 men and women/mixed teams: 4 minutes real contest time

It is recommended that these times should be followed used by national federations for
competitions for seniors, juniors and cadets.

Article 8 Technique Coinciding with the Time Signal

If Osaekomi! started in regular time (not in golden score) in case of approaching or
coinciding with the expiration of time: when Osaekomi! is announced simultaneously
with the time signal allotted for the contest or when and the remaining time is insufficient
to allow for the completion of the Osaekomi!, the time allotted for the contest shall be
extended until either ippon (or equivalence) is announced or the referee announces
Sore-made!.

Article 10 Transition from Tachi-waza into Ne-waza (A) and from Ne-waza into
Tachi-waza (B)
A1. The athletes shall be able to change from nage tachi-waza to ne-waza as far as it is
done by one of the cases referred to in this Article.

Example: in these positions below, tori, after applying a real attack, can apply sutemi-
waza that can continue into ne-waza.

Kata-sankaku grip situation in ne-waza: it is prohibited to block the opponent’s body with
the legs and mate must be announced (picture 2).

Kata-sankaku grip in ne-waza with blocking the opponent’s body with the legs is
hansoku-make (picture 3).
If the kata-sankaku grip is used starting from ne-waza going to tachi-waza, or in tachi-
waza directly, mate will be immediately called (picture 3 2).

page - 247
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

A kata-sankaku grip in tachi-waza with the intention to throw a throwing action will be
considered hansoku-make (picture 4 3).

Kata-sankaku grip in ne-waza with blocking the opponent’s body with the legs is
hansoku-make (picture 3 4).

Picture 3 and 4 reversed

Article 11
j) When tori applies osaekomi-waza, shime-waza or kansetsu-waza by stretching uke’s
leg in ne-waza. Mate must be called immediately and a shido given.

Article 13 End of Contest

1. In regular time (4 minutes), a contest can be won by a technical score or scores
(waza-ari or ippon). It can also be won by hansoku-make (a direct penalty or
accumulative penalties leading to disqualification) to the opponent.
1. In regular time (4 minutes), a contest can be won by:
• A technical score or scores (waza-ari or ippon)
• Direct hansoku-make
• Indirect hansoku-make
• Fusen-gachi
• Kiken gachi

After the referee has indicated the result of the contest making the gesture under Article
4, the athletes shall take one step backwards, make the bow and leave the contest area
by the sides of the mat, particularly around the security safety area.

The IJF Referee Supervisor(s) are responsible for all rules and decisions during the
contest. In exceptional circumstances the decision will be made by the IJF Head
Referee Director(s) and/or IJF Referee Supervisor(s), and the IJF Ad Hoc Commission.
The IJF Ad Hoc should be composed of one (1) representative from Refereeing, one (1)
from Sport and one (1) from Education and Coaching. If possible, composition of the Ad
Hoc Commission should include one (1) IJF elected official.

c) In the case of kiken-gachi (victory by opponent’s withdrawal) (Articles 19 and 20).

d) When one athlete cannot continue due to injury (Article 20).

d) When the time allotted for the contest has expired.

e) Waza-ari score from an throwing action in golden score.

f) Waza-ari or ippon score in golden score.

Golden score can only be won by a technical score (waza-ari or ippon), or hansoku-
make (direct or by accumulative shido) or kiken-gachi. If a direct hansoku-make is given,
the consequences are the same as those in regular time.

d) Osaekomi starting in golden score

If osaekomi starts in golden score, after 10 seconds of osaekomi, tori will be awarded
waza-ari (or waza-ari-awasete-ippon if he already has a waza-ari) and the contest will
end. The referee shall announce “waza-ari!, sore-made!” or “waza-ari-awasete-ippon!,
sore made!”.

page - 248
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

5. CARE system
There must be evidence to support any decision changes.

There has to be a difference between the correctly applied counter-technique and falling
on the mat and turning/rolling over the opponent.

A coach can apply to the IJF Referee Head Referee Director(s)/the IJF Referee
Supervisor(s) to review a technical situation of the match contest in which his judoka
was engaged, by filling in the appropriate form available in the judogi control room. The
action can be seen in the break between the preliminaries and the final block or after the
final block.
Article 14
Evaluation of the points in nage tachi-waza.

Just the shoulders must be at an angle that is a minimum of 90° to the tatami to consider
that there is a score, landing on the shoulder and upper back is considered a score.

1. A judo technique which is present in the judo accepted repertoire (Kodokan judo
classified techniques including recognised variations (version 01 April 2017) must be
identified. Just landing and rolling over and falling on the side/back in the process of the
contest, without applying a clear technique, is not enough to score. It must be within the
bounds of the published list of Kodokan judo techniques.

2. All situations in which one of the athletes deliberately voluntarily makes a “bridge”
(head and one foot or both feet in contact with the tatami) after having been thrown will
be considered ippon.

This decision is taken for the safety of the athletes, so they do not try to escape from
the technique and endanger their cervical spine. Also, an attempt of a voluntarily bridge
(arching the body) should be counted as a “bridge”.

Ippon evaluation in ne-waza

Article 15
Evaluation of the points in nage tachi-waza. The referee shall announce waza-ari (a
near ippon) when in his opinion the applied technique corresponds to the following
criteria: Waza-ari criteria comprises:

Article 17
Control in ne-waza using legs around the neck, without opponent’s arm inside will be
considered as Mate! and Shido!.

Article 18
27. In shime-waza (e.g., ryote-jime with tori and uke face to face, or e.g., hadaka-jime
with tori on the back of uke or sankaku situation gripping the head with the legs just
around the neck) using the legs to assist the grips around the opponent’s head without
any arm of the opponent is matte! and shido!

31. In the variation of seoi-nage techniques when tori turns away from uke, twisting
their tsurite and hikite using the sake same lapel of uke’s judogi, without controlling uke,
standing or dropping down in an unknown direction, without giving the possibility to the
opponent to perform ukemi and sometimes with uke falling with the neck on the mat, is
forbidden.

page - 249
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

Article 18.1.3 Shido for Untidy Attire or Hair

No athlete should use the tidying or rearranging of judogi/hair to get time with which to
interrupt the contest. The correct preparation of judogi, tying the belt and arranging hair
are essential and are the responsibility of each athlete.

The correct preparation of the judogi jacket, trousers, belt and belt hair is the
responsibility of the athlete. Athletes must enter and leave the field of play wearing their
judogi and hair in the proper way.

32. The correct preparation of the judogi jacket, trousers, belt and belt hair is the
responsibility of the athlete and fixing is allowed once per athlete per contest. Further
occasions are penalised with shido.
Please note that the belt/hair/trousers cannot be untied without the permission of the
referee.

If the judogi jacket, trousers and/or belt becomes undone during the contest the athlete
is obliged to quickly fix it back to the correct position. This can be between Mate! and
Hajime! or during any break in action. An athlete failing to do this will be given a penalty
(shido or hansoku-make if it is the third penalty).

A penalty will be given (shido or hansoku-make if it is the third penalty) to an athlete who
unties their trousers and/or without permission from the referee.

33. Retying hair is allowed once per athlete per contest. Further occasions are penalised
with shido (or hansoku-make if it is the third penalty). The correct preparation of
arranging hair is essential and is the responsibility of each athlete.

Article 18.2.1
1. To “dive” headfirst, onto the tatami by bending forward and downward while
performing or attempting to perform techniques such as uchi-mata, harai-goshi, seoi-
nage, tai-otoshi, kata-guruma, tsuri-goshi, ura-nage etc. it is forbidden to somersault
forward when uke is on the shoulders or the back of tori. Tori can continue in the
competition.

2. Head defence as uke, to ensure that judo has as little trauma as possible, if uke
attempts voluntarily to use the head with any movement which is dangerous for the
head, neck or spine, for defence and to avoid landing in/escaping from a score he shall
be penalised with hansoku-make. Uke can continue in the competition.
Article 18.2.2

3. To apply kansetsu-waza (ashi-garami, ude-gaeshi etc.) anywhere other than to the

elbow joint.

6. Uke, when behind tori, cannot reap tori’s standing leg or legs from the inside.
Article 18.2.2
2. The application of To apply kani-basami

3. To apply and do-jime (applying leg scissors to the opponent’s trunk, neck or head
(scissor with crossed feet), while stretching out the legs) be penalised with hansoku-
make.

3 4. To apply kansetsu-waza (ashi-garami, ude-gaeshi etc.) anywhere other than to the

elbow joint.

page - 250
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

4 5. To fall directly to the tatami while applying or attempting to apply techniques such
as ude-hishigi-waki-gatame (see point 3 above).

5 6. Applying kansetsu-waza or shime-waza in tachi-shisei with a judo throwing

technique with be penalised with hansoku-make. See also Article 18.1.2 - Shido for an
Illegal Move point 29.

6 7. Uke, when behind tori, cannot reap tori’s standing leg or legs from the inside.

7 8. To make any action this may endanger or injure the opponent especially the
opponent’s neck or spinal vertebrae.

8 9. Intentionally fall backwards when the other athlete is clinging to his back and when
either athlete has control of the other’s movement.

9 10. To lift the opponent off the tatami and forcefully push him back onto the tatami
without a judo technique.

10 11. To disregard the referee’s instructions.

11 12. To make unnecessary calls, remarks, or gestures derogatory to the opponent or

referee during the contest.

12 13. To wear or to have inside the judogi a hard or metallic object (covered or not).

13 14. Any action against the spirit of judo (this includes anything that can be described
as anti-judo, for example being in the lead and, in the last seconds of the match, leaving
the competition area to prevent the opponent from taking grips) may be punished by a
direct hansoku-make at any time in the contest.

Article 20
Vomiting by an athlete shall result in kiken-gachi for the other athlete. (See paragraph:
4b) Sickness).

Article 21
In those cases of ‘force majeure’, the IJF Sport Director(s), the IJF Sport Commission
and the IJF Head Referee Director(s) Supervisor(s) and/or IJF Referee Commissioners
will take the final decision.

APPENDIX F
IJF Disciplinary Code and IJF Code of Ethics Reference added to the Prelude.

Now Sport Competition

APPENDIX G
Sport Competition
Now Glossary

page - 251
Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

G1.1 Glossary of Japanese Terms

Japanese Kanji Hiragana English
SOR glossary SOR glossary
Kodokan dictionary Kodokan dictionary
Ayumi-ashi 歩み足 あゆみあし Natural stepping
Bogyo 防御 ぼうぎょ Defence
Bushi-do 武士道 ぶしどう Norms of the warrior (bushi, samurai)
class
Eri 襟 えり Lapel/collar
Fusegi 防ぎ ふせぎ Synonymous with Bogyo
Hidari 左 ひだり Left
Jita-kyoei 自他共栄 じたきょうえい Mutual welfare and benefit
Jo-i 上衣 じょうい Jacket
Judo 柔道 じゅうどう Way of using one’s mental and physical
Jūdō strength in the most efficient manner
Judogi/Judo-gi 柔道衣 じゅうどうぎ Judo uniform - white or blue worn with a
Jūdōgi belt
Judoka 柔道家 じゅうどうか Judo player
Judo-ka Judo minded people
Kakari geiko かかり稽古 かかりげいこ Synonymous with uchikomi
Kogeki 攻撃 こうげき Attack/offense
Kuzure 崩 くずれ Broken/variation
Mae-mawari-ukemi 前回り受身 まえまわりうけみ Forward rolling breakfall
Mae-ukemi 前受身 まえうけみ Forward breakfall
Migi 右 みぎ Right
Obi 帯 おび Belt
Seiryouku-zen’yo 精力善用 せいりょくぜんよう Maximum efficiency
Sensei 先生 せんせい Teacher/instructor
Shita-baki 下穿き したばき Trousers
Sotai-renshu 相対練習 そうたいれんしゅう Practice with partner
Sode 袖 そで Sleeve
Suri-ashi すり足 すりあし Sliding walk
Tandoku-renshū 単独練習 たんどくれんしゅう Practice done alone
Tokui-waza 得意技 とくいわざ Favourite technique
Tsugi-ashi 継ぎ足 つぎあし Jointing stepping
Ushiro-ukemi 後ろ受身 うしろうけみ Rear breakfall
Yoko-ukemi 横受身 よこうけみ Side breakfall
Zori 草履 ぞうり Sandal
Zōri

page - 252
 Sport and Organisation Rules of the International Judo Federation

G1.3 Penalty Codes

Do-jime added as PX3, PX3-PX13 renumbered to PX4-PX14

G1.4 Terminology
Term Description
Backnumber Affixed on the back of the judogi. Includes the judoka’s name and NOC code or the
identification IJF code if the country does not have a NOC.
Contest A contest between white and blue judoka, with one referee. A contest is run over
regular time and may be extended by a golden score.
Contest order number An incremental number for each mat within a day, regardless of the event.
Draw This is a random draw carried out by the IJF for all weight categories and team
competition before the competition starts.
Golden score An extra period of unlimited time intended to break ties if scores or penalties
are equal at the end of the contest period. Golden score can only be won by a
technical score (waza-ari or ippon) or hansoku-make (direct or by accumulative
Shido). If direct hansoku-make is given, the consequences are the same as those
in regular time.
IJF Ad Hoc The IJF Ad Hoc Commission will make a decision on any exceptional situation
Commission (unacceptable behaviour, etc.).
International An international competition is defined as a competition where two (2) or more
competition different nations take part.
Match Match is used to define the competition between both teams. Within each match
there are a number of contests (depending on the event).
Winning score The winning score is defined as the winner’s highest score, which makes the
difference from the opponent’s scores.
Winning technique The winning technique is the technique/penalty of the winning score. If there are
multiple equal winning scores, no winning technique is shown.

page - 253
IJF Headquarters and Presidential Office
HUN 1051 Budapest
József Attila str. 1
www.ijf.org

IJF General Secretariat

21 Avenue Gabriel Péri, 94100
Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, France
[email protected]