Russian team expected to be announced after IJF confirmation

Almost traditional the Russian team is testing a few athletes at the European Open in Madrid. In 2012 the Russian team sent the full 2012 Olympic men’s team to Madrid: Galstyan, Mogushkov, Nifontov, Denisov, Khaibulaev and Mikhailin. Only Isaev didn’t fight. This year we may see the 2016 Olympic team. Both the men and women have strong names.

Outside many young athletes who are not in the first team also the names of Ivan Nifontov, Tagir Khaibulaev, Renat Saidov, Irina Dolgova, Alesya Kuznetsova and Ksenia Chibisova. Not all of them will be in the team, but the European Open in Madrid will be an interesting test. The categories U81kg and U100kg are points of discussion, although not anymore in Russia where the choices are made. As soon as the IJF reveals the qualified names, the Russian Judo federation will follow with the announcement of their Olympic team. Will it be European champion Khasan Khalmurzaev or again Ivan Nifontov. U100kg a decision for Tagir Khaibulaev or Adlan Bisultanov. This weekend we will know more after the IJF has confirmed the qualified athletes.

Irina Dolgova is with Natalia Kuziutina the hope for a female medal. In 2012 the Russian women didn't win any medal and since then a lot was invested in the women's team.

In Madrid more than 250 athletes will be fighting with obviously a big equipe from Spain but also a huge team of France, Germany, Portugal and lot of Russian men.

Most spectacular names on the list are the return of Georgii Zantaraia U66kg, Ivaylo Ivanov U81kg and the mentioned Russians.

The IJF is expected to confirm the qualified athletes on Friday afternoon.