Legends Return to the Arena
In a world of ever-evolving sports, few traditions endure with the raw spirit and ritualistic pride of Yağlı Güreş—Türkiye’s ancient art of oil wrestling. As the 664th edition of the Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival draws near, anticipation builds not only for the competition, but for a celebration of cultural identity and physical mastery that dates back centuries.
Taking place from July 4 to 6, 2025, in the historic city of Edirne, Kırkpınar is more than a sporting event—it’s a living ceremony, where wrestlers clad in leather kispet grapple not just for victory, but for legacy.
Earlier this summer, more than 800 wrestlers came together for the 63rd Çalı Oil Wrestling Tournament in Bursa. This tournament is known as the last big event before Kırkpınar. Over 40 of the top-ranking başpehlivans (chief wrestlers) competed. The event gave a strong preview of what is coming in Edirne—full of strategy, power, and the rhythm of a centuries-old dance between man and earth.
A Tradition Evolving with Modern Spirit
As part of the new Yağlı Güreş League, oil wrestling is now becoming more organized and more visible. Wrestlers collect points at different league matches. These points are calculated using data-based systems to decide who qualifies for big events like Kırkpınar. This new mix of tradition and technology is helping attract over five million fans across Türkiye.
This year’s tournament included famous wrestlers like Fatih Atlı, İsmail Balaban, Orhan Okulu, and Mehmet Yeşil Yeşil. In Çalı, Mehmet Yeşil Yeşil won the final match after a tough battle against Yalçın Üncül.
What was once a tradition mostly seen in Anatolia is now reaching other countries too. Oil wrestling events have been held in Germany, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia. This shows that oil wrestling is more than a sport—it is a symbol of Turkish identity, strength, and pride.
As Kırkpınar gets closer, Türkiye is inviting the world once again. It’s not just about who wins— It’s about the meaning of wrestling with heart and soul.