Montpellier host of the Champions League in December

Montpellier is once again hosting a major European judo event, this time the European Club Championships, Champions League, set for December 21. After previously hosting the European Championships and European Team Championships, Montpellier will now welcome the top club teams from across the continent for this prestigious event. Clubs have the unique opportunity to recruit athletes from around the world, forming what are essentially fantasy teams, promising high-level contests.

For the first time, the 2024 edition will feature a Champions League Mixed Team event, following the Olympic format. In previous years, clubs could enter separate men's and women's teams. However, this new format will integrate both, allowing a maximum of six teams per national federation, though only one team per club can compete. Up to four teams will be seeded, based on a combination of men’s and women’s rankings from the European Clubs ranking list.

With Montpellier as the host city, fans can expect an enthusiastic and knowledgeable crowd, particularly keen to support French clubs such as the powerhouse Paris Saint Germain. Known for housing several of the nation's Olympic athletes and rising stars, Paris Saint Germain’s women’s team claimed the gold medal last year. 

In the 2023 edition, held in Belgrade, the event was marked by the fervent support of the Serbian fans, where OJK Beograd won the men's event, and Red Star secured a bronze medal in a thrilling performance. The atmosphere in Montpellier is expected to be equally electrifying as teams vie for top honors in this mixed-team format finale for 2024.