Japanese sumo wrestling is set to make its international splash once again, as the Japanese Sumo Association has officially announced upcoming performances scheduled for June 13 and 14, 2026, at the Accor Arena in Paris. These much-anticipated shows will mark the return of sumo to France for the first time since 1995 and are seen as part of the association's concerted efforts to promote this uniquely Japanese sport to international audiences.
During a press conference held at the Ryōgoku Kokugikan (National Sumo Hall) on January 19, 2025, Hakkaku, the chairman of the Sumo Association and former Yokozuna, expressed enthusiasm about sharing the rich tradition and competitive nature of sumo with the French public. “We will thoroughly prepare to convey the charm of traditional sumo culture and the excitement of the ring to the people of France,” Hakkaku stated, setting the tone for the upcoming performances.
This event is not merely about wrestling; it is also a cultural showcase, as the Japanese Sumo Association wants to envelop audiences not just with the sport itself, but also through elements of Japanese culture. The two-day event will feature tournaments with top-ranked makuuchi division wrestlers, alongside showcases of Japanese food and customs, presenting stalls to engage the audience directly with the culture.
The June performances will follow closely on the heels of another major event planned for October 2025, marking the association’s first overseas exhibition since Las Vegas hosted sumo performances 20 years prior. Even with the changing landscapes due to the pandemic and the absence of yokozuna at present, Hakkaku remains optimistic, mentioning, “Offers to perform internationally have been abundant, and we are finally able to carry forward these efforts.” This reflects how global interest in sumo remains strong, and there are aspirations to introduce the sport to younger generations abroad.
Drawing on previous experiences, the chairman noted, “Our goal is to put our best foot forward and present sumo as it is experienced here in Japan. The aim is to evoke the same passion and excitement we see at home.”
The French promoters echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the legacy sumo has left on audiences previously. “Some fans still recall sumo from its days of televised matches; our goal now is to reach out and capture the attention of younger generations and introduce them to the fascinating world of sumo,” they said during the press conference.
The event is set to feature championship rounds on the second day, culminating with decisive matches between top contenders to determine the overall winner. Support is expected from local and international fans alike, with Hakkaku emphasizing the need for the wrestlers to bring their professional instincts and enthusiasm to the event. He remarked, “I hope we can witness yokozuna entrances overseas; this is certainly something I wish to see,” adding humor to the serious nature of the preparations.
Anticipation is high, with preparations underway to host the type of extravagant matches and cultural festivities some may recall from large-scale competitions. The involvement of makuuchi wrestlers points to the Sumo Association’s commitment to providing authentic experiences to sumo fans both new and returning.
Looking beyond the Paris events, Hakkaku mentioned the importance of continuing to share the essence of sumo culture globally. “Now is the time to bring the sumo spirit out to more audiences,” he concluded, indicating not only aspirations of succeeding within Japan but the potential for greater international performances.
With aspirations for sumo to gain recognition throughout the world, this upcoming performance is expected to be one for the history books—celebrated not just for the sport itself, but as cultural bridges between Japan and the nations it reaches.