Nemanja Majdov suspended for five months for religious signs

Nemanja Majdov got suspensed by the International Judo Federation for five months for for making the sign of the cross before stepping onto the tatami for his round of 16 match against Theodoros Tselidis during the Olympics. Majdov, a strong believer in God, has been handed a five-month suspension, following two previous warnings for the same reason on April 10, 2018, and February 24, 2022.

This religious gesture is prohibited under Article 3 of the IJF Code of Ethics. Other judokas, such as Georgian Lasha Bekauri, are known to make similar gestures. It remains to be seen if they will also face warnings or suspensions.

After Tara Babulfath (three months) and Guram Tushishvili (six months), it is now Nemanja Majdov’s turn to be suspended by the International Judo Federation (IJF) for his behavior during the Paris Olympic Games.

Majdov's reaction

The 28-year-old Serbian judoka, who won the 2023 European Championship and was the 2024 World Championship runner-up in the -90kg category and 2017 world champion is banned from participating in all tournaments, camps, and preparations during this period.

In his message on instagram, Majdov explains that, in his defense letter, he chose not to apologize for the act of crossing himself, and he stands firm in his decision. For him, his faith is of utmost importance, and he proudly declares that God has given him everything, both in his personal life and in his career, and that will not change under any circumstances. He remains grateful to God for all his blessings.

Majdov reflects on how this is simply a new chapter and a challenge in his career. While he is saddened that a beautiful and challenging sport like judo has come to such a situation, he remains resolute in his faith. He acknowledges the many achievements in his career, including seven European and three World medals, and expresses deep gratitude for surpassing even his own dreams, attributing his success to the sacrifices of his family and God’s grace.

Despite the suspension, Majdov looks ahead with hope and determination, stating that he will rest until the suspension is over, and then return with renewed energy and faith in God for new victories.

Majdov signs off by expressing his love for his supporters, calling himself their European and World champion.

IJF reaction

The IJF reacts:The athlete Nemanja Majdov was sanctioned following a disciplinary procedure, initiated in accordance with the IJF Disciplinary Code.

According to the Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights, currently more than 110 international conflicts are being monitored around the world Regardless of their nature, in general, these conflicts involve politics, religion and ethical considerations. With 205-member national federations, each representing a different country or recognised territory (associate members), it is the duty of the IJF to ensure that the field of play is reserved for judo and governed exclusively by the rules of our sport. We have zero tolerance for any form of discrimination or provocation that may impact our athletes’ performance.