Lima Grand Prix 2026: Breakthrough victories on Day Two
Day two in Lima brought more breakthrough moments. Seiko Watanabe, Vlad Mitru and Dena Pohl celebrated their first World Judo Tour gold medals, while David Lima topped the -81kg podium as another thrilling day of judo unfolded in Peru.
By Euronews with IJF
Published on 16/08/2026 - 7:56 GMT+2
Welcome back to Lima for day two of the Judo Grand Prix as more World class judoka take to the tatami in the Peruvian capital.
In the -63kg category, Seiko WATANABE faced Laura VAZQUEZ FERNANDEZ. In a well matched contest, WATANABE scored a yuko in the final minute to win her first World Judo Tour gold medal.
International Judo Federation Gender Equality & Development Commission Member Mrs Katiuska SANTAELLA awarded the medals.
At -73kg, Vlad MITRU faced Jack YONEZUKA. It was MITRU’s first World Tour final and he struck gold with a cleverly worked ippon. A breakthrough performance from the Moldovan on the international stage with the biggest victory of his career so far.
International Judo Federation International Relations Commission Director Mr Oscar CASSINERIO awarded the medals.
In the -70kg category, Dena POHL faced Nauana SILVA. The German judoka was determined to take the top spot on the podium and with a waza-ari score earned herself a first World Judo Tour gold medal. A landmark victory for POHL in Lima.
International Judo Federation Head Referee Director Mr Armen BAGDASAROV awarded the medals.
At -81kg, David LIMA faced Francois GAUTHIER DRAPEAU.
LIMA scored a yuko early into the contest and managed to keep the advantage for the Grand Prix gold medal.
Peruvian Olympic Committee Director Mrs Leyla CHIHUAN awarded the medals.
The action continues tomorrow with the heavyweights here in beautiful Peru!
