IJF President Marius Vizer welcomed IBSA President Jannie Hammershoi and executive director Neil Donovan to IJF head offices in Budapest to confirm the cooperation deal that was first agreed with the IBSA Judo Committee in June.

The main aim of the collaboration is to develop visually impaired judo worldwide through regular dialogue and communication between the two organisations.

A common approach to the preparation of athletes and education of trainers and referees will also be a focus, as well as jointly organising competitions and events.

IBSA President Jannie Hammershoi and IJF President Marius Vizer sign the Memorandum of Understanding in Budapest ©IJF



Visually impaired judo for men made its debut on the Paralympic programme at Seoul 1988, with women being added at Athens 2004.

At London 2012 there were 13 events - seven for men and six for women.

Earlier this year, visually impaired judo was further boosted by the news that it would feature as a full medal sport in the inaugural European Games in Baku next year.

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