The -70 kg final was an all-German contest between Miriam Butkereit and Giovanna Scoccimarro. Butkereit, ranked fifth in the world, Olympic silver medallist in Paris in 2024 and world bronze medallist in 2025 had enjoyed an excellent 2026 season so far, winning the Tashkent Grand Slam, taking silver at the Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam and bronze at the Qingdao Grand Prix.
Gold medallist, Miriam Butkereit (GER).
Against her was Scoccimarro, ranked 29th in the world. World silver medallist in Doha in 2023 and junior world champion in 2017, she had claimed a grand slam gold medal in Abu Dhabi in 2021. Earlier in 2026, she had won the Prague European Open.
The final unfolded as expected between two athletes who knew each other extremely well. Miriam Butkereit ultimately prevailed after a tactical victory that took her to the top of the podium.
After the final, Miriam Butkereit said, “It feels amazing to win gold, especially after being a bit unwell in the past few weeks. I never counted on this, so it couldn’t be better. Fighting my compatriot in the final was fine; we haven’t fought often and it was a pleasant surprise to meet her there. This win gives me crucial points for a good seeding spot at the World Championships, so I’m happy to have this in the bag. Lastly, the atmosphere was amazing! Having the school children here made for a loud, great crowd that I loved!”
April Lynn Fohou (SUI) faced Lu Liu (CHN) in the first bronze medal contest. The Swiss judoka, junior world champion in 2025 and a finalist at the Paris Grand Slam earlier in the year, had the support of the Lausanne crowd behind her.
Bronze medal contest, April Lynn Fohouo (SUI) vs Lu Liu (CHN).
Carrying the hopes of the home spectators, April Lynn Fohou came within touching distance of giving them a memorable gold medal. Leading by a yuko, she was brought level before taking the advantage again with a strong waza-ari. Lu Liu, however, showed great determination and finished the contest on the ground with an unstoppable arm lock. It was a narrow defeat for Fohou, but the bronze medal went to Lu Liu.
Bronze medal contest, Clemence Eme (FRA) vs Madina Taimazova (RUS).
Clémence Eme (FRA) and Madina Taimazova (RUS) met in the second bronze medal contest after both produced strong performances in the preliminary rounds to reach the final block. Eme showed courage and determination but Taimazova was a level above. The Russian judoka secured her place on the podium with a waza-ari from a well-executed ko-uchi-gari, changing direction beautifully.
Bronze Medal Fights (-70 kg)