The History of Judo in Europe

Judo was founded in 1882 by Jigoro Kano in Japan. It integrated jujutsu techniques with Kano's philosophies of maximum efficiency and mutual welfare, creating a martial art that also emphasized personal development and discipline.

In 1889, Jigoro Kano traveled to Europe, specifically Paris, to promote Judo. This marked the first time Europeans were introduced to Judo, planting the seeds for its later widespread adoption on the continent.

Notable figures like Gunji Koizumi and Yukio Tani moved to Europe in the early 1900s. They demonstrated and taught Judo in various countries, establishing the first Judo club in London in 1918, further popularizing the martial art.

After World War II, European interest in Judo surged. Occupation forces, including American and British soldiers, learned Judo in Japan and brought it back to Europe, leading to the establishment of numerous Judo clubs and federations.

Judo became an Olympic sport in 1964, held in Tokyo. This global platform significantly boosted its popularity, making it one of the most practiced martial arts in Europe and contributing to its establishment as a competitive sport.

Did you know? Judo's founder, Jigoro Kano, was the first Asian member of the International Olympic Committee in 1909, influencing global sports governance.