London to Host Grand Sumo Tournament for First Time in 34 Years

The Royal Albert Hall is slated to become a “temple of sumo” as it prepares to stage the Grand Sumo Tournament for the second occasion. In October of next year, over 40 of Japan’s top rikishi, or wrestlers, are scheduled to contend over five days to determine the tournament’s grand champion. The location will feature a genuine soil and sand dohyō (ring) along with a roof described as “reminiscent of a Shinto shrine”. The Kensington site previously hosted the tournament in 1991. Donagh Collins, chief executive of the promoter Askonas Holt, stated that it is “very unusual and rare” for the tournament to take place beyond Japan’s borders. The upcoming event in October will mark the first instance in two decades that the Tournament has been staged outside Japan. James Ainscough, the venue’s chief executive, explained that with six Tournaments occurring annually every two months, securing a slot in the Royal Albert Hall’s schedule that aligned with the Tournament’s timing required considerable effort. Japan Sumo Association chairman Hakkaku Rijicho, formerly known by his ring name Yokozuna Hokutoumi, commented: “I will be making every effort to convey to the people of London the appeal of Sumo, an ancient traditional Japanese culture, and to ensure that everyone enjoys the event to their heart’s content.” Hakkaku, who was the victor of the 1991 tournament, further stated: “I look forward to meeting many of you there.” Hiroshi Suzuki, the Japanese ambassador to the UK, characterized the sport as a “synthesis of Japanese culture and tradition” that was gaining an international audience. Mr. Ainscough mentioned that the previous tournament hosted in London 33 years prior “captured the imagination of the entire country”. He also remarked: “I’m really excited to see the impact sumo can have on hearts and minds.” When questioned about the availability of affordable tickets, he informed BBC London that a “whole range of tickets” would be offered. He additionally stated: “We’re also hoping for great TV coverage so even if you can’t make it to London you can watch it.” The best of BBC Radio London can be heard on Sounds, and BBC London can be followed on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.