Bor Barna steps in as coach of Hungarian men and women

At the end of this year, Hungary’s judo national team will see a significant transition, as Bor Barna steps in as the new national team captain in December. With the contracts of current team leaders Miklós Ungvári and Ákos Braun expiring, and the departure of technical director Murakami Kijoshi, Bor will be tasked with leading both the men’s and women’s teams into a new era.

A seasoned competitor and coach, Bor Barna boasts an impressive career as a world and European silver medalist and a three-time Olympian from Paks. Since his retirement, he has remained deeply involved in judo, coaching at his local Nuclear Power Plant SE club and guiding Hungary's U23 national team. His involvement in the national judo scene has been pivotal, particularly when he led the U23 squad at major events like the European Championship in Poland. Bor’s upcoming promotion follows the Hungarian Judo Association’s competitive selection process, which concluded with the association's presidency selecting him for the position.

Bor’s vision as captain is clear: he aims to guide the team through a vital period, especially with next year’s World Championship being held in Hungary. This tournament holds extra significance, as many Olympians from Paris will compete, with some making their final appearances on this prestigious stage. Bor sees the championship as both a swan song for seasoned athletes and an inspiring opportunity for Hungary’s younger judokas to showcase their talent.

In his final days as U23 coach, Bor’s focus remains on the European U23 Championship, which begins shortly in Pila, Poland. Confident in his team’s preparations, he sees a realistic chance for Hungary to secure medals and strong finishes. Already, planning is underway with team coaches and the association’s staff to shape the senior national program leading up to next year’s World Championship in Budapest, as well as crafting development programs for younger athletes.

When asked about his motivation for stepping into this demanding role, Bor emphasized the deep gratitude he feels toward judo. Reflecting on his long career, he shared that he views his new position as a way to give back to the sport that has given him so much, reinforcing his dedication to fostering the next generation of Hungarian judokas.