The Azerbaijan Judo Federation has held a press conference regarding the Judo Leagues.

The Azerbaijan Judo Federation (AJF) held a press conference regarding the newly established Judo Leagues. During the event, Kamran Talibov, AJF Deputy Secretary General and Sports Director, and Aghayar Akhundzada, a member of the AJF Executive Committee and Domestic Competitions Manager, provided detailed information to the media.

It was stated that the primary aim of establishing the Judo Leagues is to identify new talented athletes, foster healthy competition and cooperation among local judo organizations, provide financial support to athletes and coaches, and improve the infrastructure of judo clubs.

Points earned in the Judo Leagues will also serve as a key criterion in the selection of national team members. National squads will no longer be determined solely based on the results of the national championships; instead, ranking points accumulated throughout the year in domestic competitions and league events will play a crucial role. This approach not only encourages judokas to actively participate in competitions year-round but also ensures a more objective selection process.

It was emphasized that the Judo Leagues will be held across three age categories. Only male judokas will compete in the senior league, while both boys and girls will be eligible to participate in the U-17 and U-14 leagues. The leagues will have open status, allowing all judokas who meet the conditions to compete. The senior league will consist of three events, while four events are planned for each of the U-17 and U-14 leagues. Athletes will earn ranking points based on their results in these events. These points will also contribute to the rankings of coaches and clubs. Judokas and coaches who finish the season at the top of the rankings will be awarded direct cash prizes. However, clubs will not receive monetary rewards directly — instead, funds will be allocated to support various aspects of judo development within the clubs.

It was also announced that a professional development program for judo coaches in the regions of Azerbaijan has been prepared. The program will run for six days in each region and will include both theoretical and practical sessions. Topics will cover the Judo Leagues, first aid, proper use of social media, and how to use the “Judo Manager” portal. The first seminar is scheduled to take place in Goranboy from April 14 to 19.

At the end of the press conference, questions from journalists were addressed.