In June 2026, Paris hosted a significant sumo tournament, marking the return of traditional Japanese wrestling to the city after more than 30 years. This event was the first major sumo competition in Paris since 1995, when the last tournament took place during Jacques Chirac's presidency. The chief organizer, David Rothschild, dedicated a decade to bringing this event to fruition, inspired by his experience at the 1995 tournament. His passion for sumo led him to make multiple trips to Japan over the past year and a half to prepare for this momentous occasion. The tournament was held at a venue that will also host gymnastics and other events during the upcoming Paris Summer Olympics in 2024. A sumo ring was constructed for the event, and the atmosphere was enhanced by banners displaying the names of participating wrestlers. The event not only attracted sumo enthusiasts but also aimed to introduce the sport to a broader audience in France. Rothschild expressed hope that this tournament would encourage attendees to visit Japan and experience sumo in its traditional setting at the Ryogoku Kokugikan arena. An interesting aspect of this tournament was the use of 200 kilograms of custom French salt, which plays a vital role in sumo's purification rituals. The salt was sourced from the coastal town of Le Croisic, where producers Meredith and Gautier Ferard were surprised by the request. They provided salt that met specific requirements, including a fine grain size to ensure the safety of the wrestlers' feet. The significance of salt in sumo is deeply rooted in Shinto beliefs, where it is used to purify the wrestling space and ward off evil spirits. As the tournament unfolded, it showcased not only the athleticism of the wrestlers but also the cultural richness of sumo wrestling. The event was a culmination of years of effort and dedication, highlighting the growing interest in Japanese culture in France. The successful execution of this tournament could pave the way for more international sumo events, fostering a greater appreciation for this ancient sport outside of Japan.