The World Judo Championships are being held from Sunday, October 4, to October 11, in Baku, Azerbaijan. This marks the return of the event after an eight-year hiatus. The French team has assembled a group of both new and experienced judo athletes, with internal competitions helping to finalize the team's lineup. Frédérique Jossinet, the general manager of the French judo teams, sees this event as an important opportunity to gauge the team's performance two years before the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. She is hopeful that the success of French athletes at the European Championships—where they won bronze and silver medals—will translate into gold medals at this competition. Judo is a combat sport that involves grappling and throws, and it is practiced worldwide with strict rules and weight classes. The World Judo Championships are among the most prestigious events in the sport, attracting top athletes from around the globe. This year's edition in Baku is expected to showcase the growing strength of judo in various regions, including the Middle East. Azerbaijan has been making steady progress in international judo competitions, improving its standing in world rankings over the past few years. This development reflects a broader trend in the Middle East, where several countries are investing in sports programs to enhance their global presence. The country's hosting of such a high-profile event also highlights its efforts to promote itself as a destination for international sports competitions. The competition in Baku will provide a platform for athletes to demonstrate their skills, gain experience, and prepare for future Olympic Games. For France, the event is a crucial step in building momentum toward the 2028 Olympics, where judo remains a strong discipline for the country.