Ekaterinburg Grand Slam cancelled

The Grand Slam of Ekaterinburg in Russia has been cancelled for this weekend. Eralier today the IJF informed the world of judo that the event was continued but that the tournament would be held without spectators. Due to the corona virus it is the second World Tour event that was forced to be cancelled. The Grand Prix in Rabat was cancelled last week and Ekaterinburg, Tbilisi and Antalya follow in this bizar circumstance. Some athletes fear to qualify in time as they needed each event to gain precious points.

Previous The International Judo Federation received information outdated from the Sports Ministry of Russia:

"Further to our communication regarding participation conditions in Ekaterinburg Grand Slam 2020, I would like to inform you that the organizing committee has taken into account the fact that a significant number of participants are unable to obtain valid medical certificates.

Considering the importance of the event, the organizing committee is ready to allow the participation of those who do not have a medical certificate, under the condition of an in-depth medical check-up upon arrival and daily medical check-up."

Oleg Matytsin, Minister of Sport of Russia.

The Olympic Games take place in 136 days. The next scheduled IJF World Tour event is in 59 days in Baku.