Athletes from the municipality of Vinhais once again demonstrated their strength in the Brazilian jiu-jitsu national scene, securing nine medals at the 2026 National Open Jiu-Jitsu Championship. The competition took place at the Odivelas Multipurpose Pavilion and is one of the most important events on the national calendar, organized by the Portuguese Federation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (FPJJB) and part of the IBJJF circuit.
Vinhais was represented by Essence BJJ, a school led by master Ricardo Viana, which brings together athletes from Vinhais, Bragança, and Mirandela. All Vinhais competitors present stepped onto the podium, a feat that solidifies the municipality's position as a reference center for training in this sport.
National champion titles were secured by Carolina Gonçalves, Ariana Morais, and Luciano Quintella. Silver medals went to Gael Quintella and Diogo Pires, while Iara Fernandes, Tomás Ferreira, Rodrigo Paz, and Luciano Quintella again, in the Absolute category, took home bronze. Luciano Quintella was thus doubly awarded.
These results follow a very positive season, after the three titles achieved by Vinhais athletes at the GP Cidade da Maia BJJ Cup and the European title won at the European Kids IBJJF No-Gi Championship in Lisbon.
The Vinhais Municipal Chamber has been actively supporting the practice of jiu-jitsu in the municipality, recognizing its fundamental role in the sporting and personal development of young people, in promoting an active lifestyle, and in projecting the name of Vinhais nationally and internationally.
“"Seeing the Vinhais flag on the podium of a national competition, alongside athletes from all over the country, is a source of pride for all of us. These results show that it is worth investing in sports and in our young people, and the Chamber will continue to support the athletes, families, and coaches."
The Vinhais Municipal Chamber congratulates all the athletes, families, and the technical team of Essence BJJ for their commitment and the excellent results achieved, wishing them continued sporting success.
