Abu dhabi: The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, delivered an impressive performance at the 2026 Jiu-Jitsu World Championship by winning 13 medals in the Under-18 competition on Tuesday at Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi. The team's success has further bolstered their campaign in the championship as they strive for a seventh consecutive world title.
According to Emirates News Agency, the team's standout performers included Saif Al Baloushi (Under-48kg), Saif Al Ameri (Under-62kg), and Zayed Al Hosani (Under-85kg), each clinching gold in their respective weight categories. Their victories have contributed significantly to the UAE's overall medal tally, which now stands at 52, following previous achievements in the Under-14 World Cup, Under-21 World Championship, and Under-16 competition.
The event was graced by notable attendees such as Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade; Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation; and Panagiotis Theodoropoulos, President of the Jiu-Jitsu International Federation, among others. They participated in the medal ceremonies, celebrating the athletes' achievements.
Organized by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation and the Jiu-Jitsu International Federation, the championship continues until August 9, attracting over 1,500 athletes globally. Other notable performances for the UAE included silver medals by Zainab Al Mansoori (Under-70kg) and Abdullah Andeez (Under-69kg), and bronze medals by several team members across various weight categories.
Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, a board member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, praised the athletes' confidence and maturity. He highlighted the importance of decision-making and adaptability in the Under-18 category, commending the athletes for their strategic performances.
Gold medalist Saif Al Ameri shared his journey to victory, emphasizing the importance of hard work and perseverance. He expressed his joy in winning gold in front of the home crowd, marking a significant achievement in his competitive career.
The youth competitions are set to continue on Wednesday, wrapping up their segment on August 5, before transitioning to the Adult and Para Jiu-Jitsu divisions from August 6 to 9.