International Koresh Competition Held During Sabantuy in Kazakhstan

From July 24 to 26, the city of Petropavl, Republic of Kazakhstan, hosted an International Koresh Competition as part of the large-scale QYZYLJAR SABANTUI 2026 festival. The tournament became one of the central sporting events of the celebration of Tatar culture and a vivid symbol of international friendship, bringing together athletes, distinguished guests, and thousands of spectators.

Among the honored guests were Rustam Minnikhanov, Rais (Head) of the Republic of Tatarstan; Gauyez Nurmukhambetov, Akim of the North Kazakhstan Region; and Vasil Shaykhraziev, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Tatarstan and Chairman of the National Council of the World Congress of Tatars.

The official delegation was welcomed by Ravil Nogumanov, Chairman of the Board of the International Koresh Federation. One of the tournament's most memorable moments was the ceremonial exchange of traditional wrestling uniforms between the delegations of Kazakhstan and Tatarstan. The Kazakh side presented a belt and jacket for Qazaq Kuresi, Kazakhstan's traditional style of wrestling, while receiving a traditional koresh belt and jacket in return. This symbolic gesture reflected the mutual respect for each other's cultural heritage and highlighted the shared sporting traditions of the two nations, as well as their commitment to preserving and promoting traditional wrestling styles.

In his address, Rustam Minnikhanov recalled that the Russia–Kazakhstan Interregional Cooperation Forum had taken place in Omsk the previous day with the participation of the Presidents of Russia and Kazakhstan, Vladimir Putin and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. He emphasized that the strong relationship between the leaders of the two countries provides a solid foundation for cultural and sporting exchanges, as well as the implementation of joint initiatives.

More than 100 athletes competed on the wrestling mat, contesting medals in eight weight categories for men and youth wrestlers. The highlight of the tournament was the absolute weight category, where competitors battled for the prestigious title of Batyr and the tournament's grand prize—a Lada Granta.

Following a series of exciting and closely contested bouts, the absolute title was won by a representative of Kazakhstan, who was ceremonially presented with the keys to a brand-new Lada Granta.