Hosting the 2030 Mediterranean Games in Kosovo represents a historic event, one that goes beyond the boundaries of sports to become an important diplomatic and political platform for the country. This event, with a tradition of over 50 years, is not only an opportunity to showcase sporting skills but also a golden chance for the international affirmation of the state of Kosovo.

The President of the Judo Federation, Agron Kuka, in an interview with KosovaPress, emphasizes that on a sporting level, the Mediterranean Games are considered one of the most prestigious competitions, particularly in judo.

Kuka notes that in this discipline, world powers such as France, Italy, Spain, Turkey, and Egypt participate, making the competition extremely strong.

Kosovo’s representation at this level is a testament to the development of sport in the country.

“The Mediterranean Games are truly an important competition, considering that their tradition spans over 50 years. For judo, it is one of the most important events on the four-year competition calendar. It should be emphasized that in judo at the Mediterranean Games, several countries participate that genuinely prioritize judo and have a long-standing tradition in the sport, such as France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Morocco, Algeria, and Egypt. Most of the countries participating in judo at the Mediterranean Games have highly developed judo programs. For us as a federation and as a young country, participating in the Mediterranean Games is truly important,” Kuka stated.

However, the true significance of this event lies in its diplomatic dimension. It is expected that around 24 of the 26 member states will participate in the Games held in Kosovo. Among them, a considerable number are countries that have not yet recognized Kosovo’s independence. The participation of delegations from these states provides a unique opportunity to present Kosovo as a new, functional state capable of hosting major international events.

“Twenty-six countries have the opportunity to participate, and I believe approximately 24 will take part. I do not think Serbia will participate. But other states, and most of the participating countries, are states that have not recognized Kosovo’s independence. So, besides the sporting aspect, this also has diplomatic and political importance, allowing countries that have not recognized us to come and see Kosovo, which is one of the new states deserving respect and recognition from the relevant countries,” Kuka continued.

The head of the Judo Federation revealed to KosovaPress that at these Games in 2030, young judokas will also participate, not just those currently at the peak of their careers.

“I believe some of the athletes currently active will also participate. But there will certainly be young athletes as well, knowing that the competition is four years away. Generations will naturally change, but surely some of the current active athletes will participate in the Mediterranean Games to be held in Kosovo,” Kuka explained.

Kuka adds that for local athletes, hosting the Mediterranean Games at home is an additional motivation. The opportunity to compete in front of their own audience and represent their country at such a major event is a dream come true.

“This is particularly important because, as a country and as a federation, we do not often host competitions of such international significance. We know we held an open championship in Prishtina, which was a success story. For us, it is very important as a judo sport to perform in our own country and allow all spectators to see these competitors up close, observe their performance, and enjoy their results,” Kuka concluded.

Kosovo’s success in past editions has been extraordinary. Judo and boxing have brought Kosovo medals in the last two editions of the Mediterranean Games, in Tarragona and Algeria, collecting a total of 10 medals. This fact highlights not only the potential of Kosovar athletes but also the strategic importance of these sports for the country’s image.