The 2025 IJF Veterans World Championships took place in Paris from 3–7 November, bringing together 2,316 judoka from 64 nations in one of the largest veteran judo events ever held. Oceania was proudly represented by 15 athletes across Australia, New Caledonia, New Zealand, and French Polynesia, each demonstrating skill, determination, and the enduring spirit of judo.
Oceania secured a number of podium finishes, highlighted by an outstanding performance from New Caledonia.
New Caledonia placed 26th overall, earning a gold medal from Abedias Trindade de Abreu (M5 – 81 kg), a bronze from Elodie Foeillet (F4 – 48 kg), and a 7th-place finish from Emeline Kaddour (F1 – 63 kg).
Australia placed 48th with a bronze medal secured by Lisa Griffiths (F6 – 52 kg).
New Zealand also placed 48th, with Vitaly Aliluev taking bronze in the M6 – 100 kg division.
These results reflect the depth and quality of veteran judo within the Oceania region and continue to build on a tradition of competitive excellence.
Several Oceania judoka progressed through early rounds and reached repechage stages, narrowly missing opportunities to fight for medals. Among them were:
Franck Alighieri (New Caledonia – M8 – 81 kg)
John Maxwell (New Zealand – M7 – 90 kg)
David Chevalier (French Polynesia – M6 – 90 kg)
The Championships also saw strong representation from athletes including:
Australia: Jeremy Cade (M4 – 73 kg), Andras Berta (M4 – 81 kg), Michael Heimdall (M4 +100 kg)
French Polynesia: Toanui Lucas (M6 – 81 kg)
New Caledonia: Cyril Pierre Chevalier, Gerald Chadféau, and Franck Alighieri across their respective divisions
Their participation underscores the growing engagement of veteran athletes across Oceania and the region’s commitment to lifelong involvement in the sport.
Full results and match replays from the 2025 Veterans World Championships are available on JudoTV.