British Judo is delighted to announce a significant funding boost of £250,000 ahead of the 2024 Birmingham Junior European Cup.

The funding has been provided by the West Midlands Combined Authority and the UK Government, as part of the Commonwealth Games Legacy Funding initiative which received a £3m funding boost for major events taking place in the West Midlands this year.

The initiative seeks to unite communities and promote engagement within the region. The inaugural Birmingham Junior European Cup, held in 2023 at the University of Wolverhampton, Walsall Campus, was a resounding success. The event witnessed the participation of over 270 judoka from 18 countries, competing fiercely at the home of British Judo.

The generous funding of £250,000 is set to elevate the 2024 Birmingham Junior European Cup to new heights. With this support, the event is poised to return bigger and better, offering an enhanced experience for both participants and spectators.

The 2024 Birmingham Junior European Cup is scheduled to take place from 15 to 19 June 2024. With the additional funding secured, the event promises to be a highlight on the judo calendar, attracting top talent from around the globe.

Commenting on the funding, Andrew Scoular, British Judo CEO, expressed gratitude, saying: “We are incredibly grateful for the generous support from the West Midlands Combined Authority and the UK Government. This funding will enable us to enhance the Birmingham Junior European Cup, further establishing it as a premier event in the world of judo.”

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), said: “The legacy of our outstanding Commonwealth Games continues to deliver for the people of our region.

“Our success in bringing the Games in under budget has left us with more than £70m to support grass roots sports and cultural organisations right across our region but has also helped to establish the West Midlands as a go to destination for major sporting events like the European Athletics Championships in 2026.

“This latest £250,000 funding means Walsall Council has now been able to bring the European Judo Union Junior Cup and almost 2,000 competitors and spectators to our region. These shows and competitions are not only exciting for sports fans and others but provide an important boost to our regional economy and our global reputation as a first-class host of major sporting and cultural events.”

Councillor Andrew, Deputy Leader of the Council and portfolio holder for Regeneration said: “I had the pleasure of visiting the British Judo Headquarters in Walsall, based at the University of Wolverhampton, witnessing the work happening right in our community. Through diligent advocacy for Commonwealth Legacy Funding from WMCA, we successfully directed a portion of that funding to Walsall. It’s great to be celebrating the allocation of £250,000 to British Judo, a testament to the collaborative efforts of all those involved.”

“We are looking forward to seeing the European Judo Union Junior Cup here in June.”

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