LARNACA, Cyprus — From February 6-8, 2026, the coastal city of Larnaca hosted the traditional international sambo tournament, Cyprus Open 2026. This competition, with its long-standing history, once again confirmed its status as one of the most welcoming tournaments on the European sambo calendar.
This year, representatives from 10 countries competed for medals. The event organizers traditionally placed special emphasis on creating comfortable conditions for athletes of all age groups, ensuring a high level of competition.
An important part of the program was the educational component. Continuing the referee certification program for the international arena, a specialized seminar for referees was held as part of the tournament, led by Ivan Netov, head of the European Sambo Federation’s referee commission. Participants thoroughly examined the latest rule changes and the intricacies of refereeing international bouts. Upon completion of the training, judges will receive official certificates confirming their
“The tournament in Cyprus is not only a competition for medals but also an important stage for sharing experiences. Organizing a training seminar for judges underscores the organizers’ commitment to continuous professional growth and the development of Sambo,” the organizing committee noted.
The sporting event culminated in a training camp, organized immediately after the competition. All interested athletes were able to participate, allowing wrestlers from different countries to spar together, consolidate their acquired skills, and strengthen friendships within the international Sambo community.
The Cyprus Open 2026 once again demonstrated that the Republic of Cyprus is an important center for Sambo development in the Mediterranean, harmoniously combining athletic achievements and professional training.