New Classification System in Judo for Athletes With Visual Impairments: Performance-Related Outcomes According to Different Sport Classes

The International Blind Sports Federation introduced a new classification system for judo athletes with visual impairments in 2022, dividing them into two groups, J1 (totally blind) and J2 (partially sighted), based on visual acuity and field measurements, with the aim of promoting fairness in official competitions. Based on this perspective, the aim of this study was to explore performance-related outcomes of judo athletes with visual impairments under the new J1 and J2 classification system during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. A total of 195 matches (105 males and 90 females) were analyzed. Analysis of variance with Bonferroni post hoc compared groups based on medalists and nonmedalists (p < .05). Results showed that medalists outperformed nonmedalists in scoring index, technical standing variability, and the index of qualitative variation (p < .05). In the J1 class, technical groundwork variability was a significant differentiator, with medalists showing greater variability (p < .05). Additionally, J1 athletes demonstrated a higher prevalence of turning actions, forward throws, and two supporting feet (p = .016). This study indicated different performance outcomes for the classes determined by the new classification system. It is likely that this new system contributed to a more balanced and equitable competitive environment.