The 18th Sekapark Altınkemer Oil Wrestling Tournament, one of Turkey’s most prestigious traditional wrestling events, begins Friday, June 12 through Sunday, June 14 at the İzmit Athletics Track in Kocaeli. Organized by Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality, this three-day spectacle is the fourth leg of the CW Enerji Turkey Oil Wrestling League and brings together approximately 1,700 wrestlers from across the country.
Oil wrestling, known as yağlı güreş in Turkish, is one of the world’s oldest competitive sports, dating back more than 650 years. Wrestlers, called pehlivans, compete while covered in olive oil, wearing traditional leather trousers called kispet. The Sekapark Altınkemer edition is widely regarded as one of the premier stops on the national oil wrestling calendar.
This year’s event features 75 top-tier başpehlivan (chief wrestler) competitors, 100 başaltı (sub-chief) wrestlers, and 110 büyük orta (large middle) wrestlers battling across all categories from junior to championship level. Organized under the Turkish Traditional Wrestling Federation, the event carries league points that could determine the season’s overall champion.
All eyes will be on reigning champion Orhan Okulu, who delivered a standout performance last year. The question on everyone’s mind: can he defend his title against a deep field of challengers? The tournament follows a bracket format beginning with weight and classification checks on Friday at 2:00 PM, followed by opening-round matches. Saturday sees second and third-round bouts narrowing the field, and Sunday crowns the champion after quarterfinal, semifinal, and final matches.
For fans and visitors, the tournament offers more than just wrestling. The festival atmosphere includes food stalls, traditional music, and opportunities to purchase commemorative merchandise. For those looking to show their support, custom-printed t-shirts featuring favorite wrestlers, team Turkey oil wrestling designs, or event-specific apparel are popular ways to participate in the celebration.
The event is expected to draw thousands of spectators to İzmit, boosting local tourism and showcasing Kocaeli’s commitment to preserving Turkey’s rich sporting heritage. Oil wrestling has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with televised league matches and growing international interest. The Kocaeli stop represents a key moment in the 2026 season, and the atmosphere promises to be electric as wrestlers from every corner of Turkey converge for a weekend of skill, strength, and tradition.
Admission details are available through the Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality. Whether you are a lifelong oil wrestling fan or a first-time spectator curious about this unique Turkish tradition, the Sekapark Altınkemer Oil Wrestling Tournament offers an unforgettable cultural experience.