Baku 2015 European Games can today announce that 10 nations have qualified to be represented in Blind Judo at next year’s inaugural event.
In total, the 10 countries have qualified 16 judokas in the event, which is being fully integrated into the Judo programme at the Heydar Aliyev Arena.
Blind Judo will take place over one day of competition, with medals in the men’s over 90 kilogramme category and in the women’s under 57 kilogramme category.
Mr Simon Clegg, Baku 2015 Chief Operating Officer, said: "Blind Judo is a fantastic addition to our sports programme and proof that the inaugural European Games will be an innovative and inclusive event that will be enjoyed by sports fans from all over the world.
"I would like to congratulate all of the nations who have qualified for next year and wish them good luck as they continue their training and preparation for Baku 2015."
The 10 nations that have qualified athletes are Azerbaijan, France, Germany, Greece, Great Britain, Hungary, Russia, Spain, Turkey and Ukraine.
In the men’s tournament, Ilham Zakiyev – who has won two Paralympic gold medals at Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008, and one bronze in London 2012 – will compete for Azerbaijan.
Mr Zakiyev said: "To be selected to represent my country at the first European Games in Baku is a wonderful honour for me and I hope to make history as the first champion.
"It is excellent that Blind Judo is included at Baku 2015, and I am very proud to have the opportunity to win a medal for Azerbaijan in the Heydar Aliyev Arena."
In the women’s competition, Germany’s Ramona Brussig – who won London 2012 gold in the under 52 kilogramme category – will be one of the favourites.
Mr Pierce O’Callaghan, Director of Sport at Baku 2015, said: "The 16 athletes that have qualified for Baku 2015 have a wealth of experience between them and represent some of the elite talent of Europe.
"We are expecting huge interest in Blind Judo, and are confident of hosting an event that will showcase the sport as the judokas battle for the right to be called the first ever European Games champion."
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