The Principality is preparing to welcome over 100 elite athletes for the 30th edition of the Tournoi International de Judo de Monaco (TIJM) – Trophée Gérard Bertrand, taking place on Sunday 7th December 2025 at the Salle Gaston Médecin in Stade Louis II.
Organised by the Fédération Monégasque de Judo, the tournament is a standout event on the European judo calendar, showcasing team-based matches that deliver intensity, drama, and high-level sport. Teams of seven senior male judokas will compete across weight categories from –60kg to +100kg, with the first team to win four matches advancing.
Return of the Japanese
This year’s edition is marked by the much-anticipated return of the Japanese team, absent in 2024. Representing the renowned Nittai Judo Club of Tokyo, the squad includes Hayato and Genki Koga, sons of the late Olympic champion Toshihiko Koga, along with a lineup of rising stars eager to make their mark in Monaco.
A strong home side
Team Monaco is also stepping up with a powerful lineup. Marvin Gadeau, who represented the Principality at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, will compete in the +100kg category. He’ll be joined by Matthieu Pettiti (–81kg) and Abdesalem Khiri (–66kg), both of whom medalled for Monaco at the 2025 Games of the Small States of Europe, and Aleksa Mitrovic (–90kg), the 2022 World Junior bronze medallist and French junior champion.
Tough competition from France and beyond
The Institut du Judo (IJ) of Paris is considered one of the top contenders, while other strong French teams include 17e RGP Montauban, Judo Club de Venelles (Pro League), Jita Kyo Ei (Montpellier), Olympique Judo Montpellier, Judo Vaucluse – Grand Avignon, Nice Métropole, and Ligue Nouvelle Aquitaine.
Teams from Italy, Lithuania, Ukraine, and others will also compete, setting the stage for a thrilling day of high-level judo.
Spectator-friendly format
The team format — with quick turnarounds and momentum swings — has made the tournament a favourite among judo fans. Teams are grouped in pools and guaranteed at least three matches. The top team from each group advances to the semi-finals, followed by a third-place match and the grand final.
Admission is free, and a refreshment stand will be available on-site for attendees.
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Photo source: Tournoi International de Judo de Monaco