Some training camps are built purely on hard work. Others create the conditions for athletes and coaches to perform at their very best. The Benidorm Olympic Training Camp 2026 once again proved why it remains one of the standout destinations on the European judo calendar, bringing together over 1,000 members of delegates for a week of intensive preparation, international collaboration and world-class training.
Judoka, coaches, physiotherapists and support staff gathered in the stunning surroundings of Hotel Meliá Villaitana, where elite sport met an environment designed to encourage both performance and recovery. The atmosphere inside the dojo reflected the level of the camp itself. Olympic, world and European champions, rising talents and experienced coaches all worked side by side, creating invaluable opportunities to sharpen skills and build towards the major events ahead.
Olympic champion Arsen Galstyan of Russia, who was present as a coach, highlighted the value of bringing together so many elite athletes in one place. “We are very happy to be here,” he said. “This year, many more top athletes and judoka are here, which is very nice for us because there are strong opponents and people to fight with to gain experience. That experience will help produce positive results in the future.”
Galstyan also praised the international atmosphere created by the camp. “The atmosphere is great. Many countries have come here. This year I really enjoyed it because there are many leaders in the world of judo. I hope this tradition will continue and we will have even more space to welcome more guests. This is a land of judo. Thank you for the great support.”
France coach Jane Bridge was particularly impressed by the logistical improvements introduced this year. “Of course, the environment here is always fantastic. We always have good weather and good food but especially this year something feels special,” she explained.
“Now we have the dojo actually at the hotel. We are staying here and it is only a five-minute walk to training and five minutes back. It is so convenient. We were quite surprised because we did not know about this before, and we are very happy.”
For Israel Head Coach Shany Hershko, Benidorm represents something even bigger: continuity, consistency and quality preparation at a crucial stage of the Olympic cycle. “The first time I came here was around 2015 when it started in Castelldefels, and now we have moved to Benidorm,” he reflected.
“It has always been a combination of high-level judo, high-level training partners and a great environment, which is why we come back every year.”
This year’s edition, however, stood out even further.
“The facilities are amazing, the hotel is excellent and training is very close, just a short walk away in beautiful surroundings,” Hershko continued.
“The timing is also very important because the Olympic qualification is approaching. It is a very good opportunity to train with some of the best athletes in Europe and the world to prepare. We have a long journey ahead but this is a very good first step.”
As the Olympic cycle accelerates and international competition intensifies, camps such as Benidorm continue to play an increasingly important role. These camps are about building momentum, testing progress and creating an environment where athletes can push each other towards excellence.
The next opportunity for the world judo elite to come together will be at the Poreč OTC, taking place from 8–13 June 2026.
Author: EJU Media
