Judo: 46 countries expected in Senegal from 18 to 23 May

The 42nd African Judo Championships, which were to be held in Morocco, will finally take place in Dakar, Senegal, from 18 to 23 May. This continental sporting event brings together 46 countries, which have confirmed their participation, according to the Senegalese Federation of Judo and Associated Disciplines (FSJDA).

It is finally Senegal which will host the 42nd African Judo Championships, after the withdrawal of Morocco, due to the health crisis related to the Coronavirus pandemic. This continental event brings together 46 countries, which have confirmed their participation, according to the Senegalese Federation of Judo and associated disciplines (FSJDA).

« This number may increase », says Babacar Makhtar Wade. According to the president of the FSJDA, « as there is the elective congress, the countries are obliged to come and vote. We think that there will be more countries », he adds. And to be able to compete at the height of the event, 23 Lions of Senegal are entering the tournament. But only 18 fighters will be on the final list, including 9 women and as many men.

After 2011, Senegal is again hosting this continental competition, with the objective of winning the maximum number of medals on its soil. On this occasion, more than 238 delegations are expected in Dakar. « We are in the process of checking with the Minister of Sports, as regards the participation of the national team, since it is a fairly large budget, » said Babacar Makhtar Wade.