The European Judo Union has sadly been informed of a loss of a member of our Judo family.
The Italian judoka Michele Monti, World bronze medallist from 1997, passed away on Saturday evening. The 48 year old judoka died in a tragic car accident. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2015, he fought this sickness with the same determination and spirit he applied to sport.
During his career Ezio Gamba, EJU General Secretary was his coach and he accompanied him to two Olympic Games.
“I am very sad that he passed away. He had a great character. He was clever, sensitive and very very honest. Michele was the best man I have ever worked with in my career. He will always stay in my memories.”
Monti won the bronze medal at the European Judo Championships in 2004 in Bucharest and competed at two Olympic Games (Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004).
We express our deepest condolences to the family of Michele Monti for their tragic loss.