Ashpiz arrived in Budapest as one of the category’s most exciting young talents. Still only 18, he has already won world cadet bronze in 2023 and the European cadet title in 2024, before stepping up to take grand prix gold in Lima in 2025 and both grand slam and European bronze medals in 2026.
Jean has continued his rapid progression on the international circuit. After winning his first grand slam medal, bronze in Paris in 2025, he claimed gold at the Zagreb Grand Prix later that year, confirming his ability to compete among the world’s best.
Ashpiz appeared to take the lead before the halfway point of the final with a small ashi-waza attack that was initially awarded a yuko, before being cancelled for insufficient impact. He nevertheless continued to put pressure on Jean, forcing him into errors and taking the advantage on penalties. Ashpiz then settled the contest in spectacular fashion, countering Jean for a resounding ippon and the gold medal.
Izhak Ashpiz said, "I am very happy to win a grand slam again. It’s a very good feeling and I want it more. Winning the gold medal has taken believing in myself, my team believing in me, and teamwork. My expectation for myself at the World Championships in Baku is to be at the top of the podium. I will train hard and we will see the results."
In the first bronze medal contest, David Starkel of Slovenia faced Marton Andrasi of Hungary. With Andrasi competing at home, the contest offered the local public an opportunity to support one of their own. Starkel proved too strong in ne-waza though, securing a hold and forcing Andrasi to submit, delivering the bronze medal to Starkel.
The second bronze medal contest brought together Murad Muradli of Azerbaijan and Artem Lesiuk of Ukraine. Lesiuk also sealed his victory with fine groundwork, scoring ippon through an immobilisation to claim a place on the podium.
Final (-60 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-60 kg)
