The Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam 2026 is underway in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, bringing together many of the world’s top judoka for one of the International Judo Federation’s premier events. Running from June 19-21, the tournament marks the beginning of the road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, making it the first IJF World Tour event to award Olympic qualification ranking points.
A total of 454 athletes from 58 countries across five continents are competing over three days, with medals, world ranking points and Olympic qualification all on the line.
Event Details
Event: Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam 2026
Dates: June 19-21, 2026
Location: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Competition Venue: Steppe Arena
Tour: IJF World Tour
Competitors: 454
Countries: 58
Continents Represented: 5
Olympic Qualification: Yes – LA 2028 Ranking Event
Why the Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam Matters
The Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam is more than another stop on the IJF World Tour.
It officially launches the Olympic qualification period for Los Angeles 2028, giving athletes their first opportunity to collect valuable world ranking points that will count toward Olympic selection.
With Olympic champions, world champions and continental medalists all competing, the tournament is expected to play a significant role in shaping the early standings for the new Olympic cycle.
Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam 2026 Schedule
Friday, June 19
Preliminary Session – 9:30 a.m.
- Men’s -60 kg
- Men’s -66 kg
- Women’s -48 kg
- Women’s -52 kg
- Women’s -57 kg
Final Block – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, June 20
Preliminary Session – 9:30 a.m.
- Men’s -73 kg
- Men’s -81 kg
- Women’s -63 kg
- Women’s -70 kg
Final Block – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 21
Preliminary Session – 9:30 a.m.
- Men’s -90 kg
- Men’s -100 kg
- Men’s +100 kg
- Women’s -78 kg
- Women’s +78 kg
Final Block – 5:00 p.m.
Competition Format
The tournament follows the International Judo Federation’s standard elimination format across 14 individual weight categories.
Men’s Divisions
- -60 kg
- -66 kg
- -73 kg
- -81 kg
- -90 kg
- -100 kg
- +100 kg
Women’s Divisions
- -48 kg
- -52 kg
- -57 kg
- -63 kg
- -70 kg
- -78 kg
- +78 kg
By the Numbers
- 454 competitors
- 253 men
- 201 women
- 58 participating nations
- Five continents represented
The European Judo Union sends the largest regional delegation with 244 athletes, followed by the Judo Union of Asia with 184 competitors, highlighting the global depth of the tournament.
Athletes to Watch
The field includes Olympic champions, reigning world champions and some of the sport’s highest-ranked judoka.
Among the biggest names competing are Japanese stars Uta Abe, Ryuju Nagayama, and Takeshi Takeoka, alongside top-ranked athletes from Azerbaijan, France, Italy, Mongolia and several other leading judo nations.
With Olympic qualification now underway, every contest carries added importance as competitors begin building their ranking toward Los Angeles 2028.
How to Watch the Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam 2026
The tournament is available through the International Judo Federation’s official platforms, including JudoTV, where fans can follow live matches, results, draws and daily updates.
The event runs from June 19 through June 21, with preliminary sessions beginning at 9:30 a.m. local time and the daily Final Block scheduled for 5:00 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam 2026?
The tournament takes place from June 19-21, 2026.
Where is the Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam held?
The event is being held at Steppe Arena in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
How many athletes are competing in Ulaanbaatar?
A total of 454 judoka from 58 countries are participating.
Does the Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam count toward the Olympics?
Yes. It is the first IJF World Tour event awarding Olympic qualification points for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Where can I watch the Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam?
Fans can follow the event through the International Judo Federation’s JudoTV platform, along with official results, draws and standings throughout the tournament.
