JJIF Congress 2026 Adopts New Governance Decisions in Abu Dhabi

Delegates from national federations across the globe gathered on Saturday for the International Jiu-Jitsu Federationjjif Congress 2026, held in Abu Dhabi where the organization maintains its headquarters. The assembly focused on addressing a broad spectrum of administrative, technical, organizational, and strategic matters designed to shape the future of the sport. Attendees worked through an extensive agenda aimed at enhancing the global presence of jiu-jitsu.

During the meeting, participants officially approved the 2025/26 activities report alongside the financial report and audit. Board members were ratified during the session, which included the re-election of Gregory Vallarino as Vice President to represent Pan America and the appointment of Sara Paganini as a new Board member. Additionally, the assembly ratified the 2027 Anti-Doping Rules to ensure clean competition, reviewed the individual licence database, evaluated reports from continental unions, and examined the schedule for the World Games 2029 in Karlsruhe, Germany. The gathering also reviewed the JJIF calendar spanning from 2026 through 2028 and discussed preliminary details regarding the location and dates for the 2027 Congress.

JJIF Congress 2026 in Abu Dhabi approved vital governance reforms, anti-doping rules, and strategic expansion plans.

Olympic Recognition and Future Strategy

A major focus of the discussions centered on the International Olympic Committee recognition process, with particular attention given to policies, institutional integrity, and robust governance standards. Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of both the UAE and Asian Jiu-Jitsu Federations, noted that the adopted outcomes demonstrate a strong consensus among international members regarding upcoming priorities. These priorities emphasize bolstering governance, refining administrative and technical systems, supporting national federations, and expanding the international reach of jiu-jitsu to match its ongoing global growth.

Why it matters

These governance decisions and regulatory updates directly impact national federations, athletes, and sporting organizations worldwide by establishing clearer administrative frameworks and anti-doping standards. For practitioners and sports administrators in India and South Asia, alignment with international rules and the push for broader global expansion create structured pathways for regional athlete development and participation in major international competitions.