The ADCC World Championships are heading to Tauron Arena Kraków on September 12-13, 2026, and organizer Mateusz Łódzkiewicz has been transparent about both the scale of the event and the financial hurdles behind bringing it to life.
Łódzkiewicz, who currently serves as vice president of ADCC for Europe, explained that his role involves helping Marco Lin manage operations across the continent. Early in the discussion, he emphasized that ADCC functions very differently from many other combat sports organizations.
“ADCC is a non-profit organization,” he said, explaining that unlike IBJJF events, where “the lion’s share goes to the organization,” ADCC allows local organizers to retain the revenue generated from their events.
He also reflected on his previous experience promoting tournaments under other banners, saying he “didn’t earn a single złoty for it,” and in some cases even contributed his own money to make events happen.
The 2026 championships will feature 104 competitors competing across two days, with cash prizes available for winners. Łódzkiewicz said ticket pricing was designed to keep the event accessible for local fans, with entry prices beginning at around €50.
“I wanted it to be like this, so that everyone, every Pole also had such access to it on a fairly budget,” he said.
Despite the ambitious scope of the event, Łódzkiewicz admitted that securing financial backing has been difficult, and he specifically called out the lack of government support.
“Our beloved government, unfortunately, also does not want to support us,” he said.
Rather than dwelling on the issue, he framed the tournament as an opportunity to promote Poland internationally regardless of whether officials choose to help.
“If they don’t help us, we must help them by promoting our country for free,” he said.
That theme carried throughout much of his comments, as Łódzkiewicz repeatedly described the championships as more than just a grappling tournament. He said he wants the event to challenge outdated perceptions about Poland, particularly among foreigners who still view the country as underdeveloped.
“I want to show the world that Poland is a great country where you can do cool things,” he said.
When discussing the financial realities of organizing an event of this scale, Łódzkiewicz made it clear he understands the personal risk involved.
“Even if I had to eat rice all year round, I’ll do it,” he said.
He acknowledged that ticket sales may or may not cover expenses and confirmed that some of the funding is coming directly from his own resources.
[Editor’s Note: Quotes have been translated and edited for clarity and readability.]
