Sumo Tournament Returns to Paris after 30 Years

Paris, June 13 (Jiji Press)–A two-day sumo tournament started in Paris on Saturday, marking the return of the traditional Japanese wrestling to the French capital after more than 30 years. The tournament, which followed a similar event held in London last October, is the third of its kind in Paris and the first since 1995. A sumo ring was set up at a site where gymnastics and other events took place during the Paris Summer Olympics in 2024. At the entrance of the venue, many banners display the ring names of wrestlers. The 1995 tournament was held during the presidency of Jacques Chirac, who was known as a sumo enthusiast. David Rothschild, the chief organizer of the ongoing event, remembers visiting the 1995 tournament venue, saying he fell in love with sumo at first sight. He says he took about 10 years to realize the latest tournament. Over the past year and a half, he visited Japan many times to prepare for the event. Ahead of the tournament, events featuring sumo wrestlers were held in Paris, achieving success. “I hope this will encourage people to come to the real home of sumo, the Ryogoku Kokugikan arena,” said wrestler Onosato, who holds the highest rank of yokozuna. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]