The Royal Albert Hall and Askonas Holt have announced that tickets for the anticipated The Grand Sumo Tournament, which takes place from 15 to 19 October 2025, will go on sale from 10am GMT on Friday 7 March. Additionally, the pre-sale for Royal Albert Hall Friends & Patrons is on Wednesday 5 March at the same time.
The Grand Sumo Tournament, organised in partnership with the Nihon Sumo Kyokai (Japan Sumo Association), marks the first time that Japan’s iconic Sumo will be hosted in the UK since 1991, when then the last tournament also took place at the Hall.
This will be a unique opportunity to experience one of the world’s oldest and most captivating sports, as one of London’s landmark venues is transformed to host a five-day basho. Blending athleticism and tradition, the tournament will feature a full complement of Makuuchi rikishi (wrestlers), from Japan’s top level Sumo division, competing in front of a live audience to win the coveted title of grand champion.
With origins dating back more than 1,500 years, the tournament will not only portray the sheer skill of Japan’s most elite rikishi, but also the sacred traditions of the deeply ritualistic sport. With each match beginning with a series of historic symbolic acts representing the sport’s core values – respect, honour and perseverance – the tournament promises to give audience members a real insight into the culture and historic customs of Japan and Sumo.
Marking a truly momentous occasion, The Grand Sumo Tournament will bring elite Sumo wrestling back to the Royal Albert Hall for the first time since 1991— the only other instance in history when a five-day basho was presented outside of Japan. That historic event, broadcast live to millions across the UK and witnessed in person by sold-out crowds, became an unforgettable milestone in Sumo’s storied legacy.
Now, more than three decades later, the exceptional wrestlers of Japan’s Sumo Association will write a new chapter in history as they return to the historic London venue for another thrilling competition.
The Grand Sumo Tournament will be generously supported by XTX Markets, Mizuho Financial Group, and The House of Suntory.
For further information on The Grand Sumo Tournament London, and to book, please head to: www.royalalberthall.com/sumo.
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