International junior competition brings two days of high-level sport to the Algarve
Portimão is once again stepping into the international spotlight, hosting the Judo Junior European Cup at Portimão Arena on March 7 and 8, bringing together junior male and female athletes.
The competition is part of the official European Judo Union calendar and counts towards the European ranking. Around 375 athletes from 23 countries are expected in Portimão, along with coaches, referees and technical teams, turning the city into a hub of international judo for the weekend.
Spectators will have the chance to watch top-level junior sports up close throughout two days of high technical level and competitive intensity. For many of these young competitors, the Portimão stage represents an important step in their sporting journey.
Athletes will travel from across Europe and beyond, from countries including Canada, Iceland, Kyrgyzstan, Mexico, Morocco, Turkey, and the United States of America to the Algarve.
Preliminary rounds on both days begin at 10am. On March 7, male athletes compete in the -60kg, -66kg and -73kg categories, and female athletes in the -63kg, -70kg, -78kg and +78kg divisions.
On March 8, the men’s categories include -81kg, -90kg, -100kg and +100kg, whilst women compete in the -48kg, -52kg and -57kg divisions.
The final blocks will take place later each day, with times to be confirmed.
The competition is free to attend.
Follow Inside Algarve Magazine on Instagram and Facebook for more news!
Read also:
Algarve Box Cup 2026 proves a major success in Lagoa, a benchmark in European Olympic boxing
