Majlinda Kelmendi, the most successful athlete in the sport’s history of the Republic of Kosovo, will be one of the brightest stars featuring at the EOC flagship event in Minsk from 21-30 June.

Considered an idol in her country, Majlinda has entrusted the first gold medal to Kosovo, which for the first time participated at an Olympic Games in Rio 2016. Being injured in Baku 2015, it will be her debut at European Games, who will compete in the weight category – 52 kg.

The 28-year-old, who was Judo World Champion in 2013 and 2014 and European Champion in 2014, 2016 and 2017, is now seeking her fourth European title.

Kosovo Olympic Committee announced on 7 June a delegation of 12 athletes representing the country in Minsk. Judo has the highest number of representatives, five in total. Competitions in judo at Minsk 2019 will serve also as a European Championship. Other Kosovars will compete also in boxing, karate, table tennis.

So far Kosovo counts on one bronze medal at the European Games, won by Judoka Nora Gjakova in Baku 2015.