International Judo Federation lands new partners

The International Judo Federation has agreed sponsorship deals with Russian banking and construction company SMP and fitness equipment manufacturer Impulse.

SMP has signed a four-year deal with the global governing body. The length of Impulse’s partnership was not disclosed.

The SMP partnership was signed following the conclusion of the final event of the 2017 World Judo Tour season in St Petersburg.

IJF president Marius Vizer said: “My main goal was to develop our sport, show the world the beauty and values of judo and transform judo as a modern leading sport on the international scene.

“Our future targets are to increase the number of broadcasters and the popularity of judo, increase the media value for sponsors and attract more sponsorship, as well as consolidate the IJF and World Judo Tour brand, creating a universal judo culture.”

The 2018 World Judo Tour season begins in Tunisia with an event that takes place from January 19-21.