TOKYO – Sumo, Japan’s ancient sport, is navigating a delicate balance as it plans to host events abroad for the first time in two decades, while striving to maintain its rich traditions. The Japan Sumo Association (JSA) is set to conduct exhibition tournaments in London this October and in Paris next June, marking the sport’s return to international stages since its last venture to Las Vegas in 2005.
This move mirrors other global sports like football and baseball, which have sought to expand their fanbase by playing matches overseas. John Gunning, a former amateur sumo wrestler and commentator, highlights the unique challenge sumo faces due to its centuries-old customs. “It’s always a tightrope,” Gunning stated, emphasizing the need to preserve sumo’s cultural essence while adapting to modern sports and business landscapes.
JSA Chairman Hakkaku has voiced the importance of showcasing sumo internationally, noting that “our traditional culture has been recognized.” The enthusiasm from European promoters like David Rothschild of AEG, who plans to make these international events an annual occurrence, suggests a growing global interest.
“If you turn sumo into just a pure sport, you lose what makes it special.”
The last few years have seen a spike in sumo’s international following, particularly during global lockdowns, with fans engaging through platforms like the JSA’s “Sumo Prime Time” YouTube channel, which now boasts 71,000 subscribers. Additionally, efforts to cater to non-Japanese fans with language support in Japanese stadiums have been made.
