Afghanistans National Buzkashi Championship Attracts Large Crowd in Kabul

Afghanistan’s Buzkashi Tournament Draws Large Crowds and High-Ranking Officials

The annual buzkashi tournament in Afghanistan took place on the outskirts of Kabul, attracting a large crowd of spectators, including high-ranking Taliban officials. The event, which showcases elite riders competing for points by carrying a leather-wrapped bundle across a designated goal line, was attended by teams from 11 provinces and eight international participants.

The tournament featured two teams competing against each other, with 12 riders on each side. Competitors demonstrated exceptional horsemanship as they retrieved the bundle from the ground and raced towards the goal while being pursued by opposing riders. The winning team took a celebratory circuit around the field, proudly displaying their flag in triumph.

According to officials, the tournament was funded by corporate sponsorship from a petrol company, which provided prizes for the top four teams, including automobiles, trophies, medals, and certificates. Thousands of male spectators filled the stands at the central Kabul venue, with some fans even climbing nearby trees and electricity pylons to gain better vantage points.

The tournament concluded with northern Sar-e-Pul province defeating northeastern Badakhshan 7-0 in the final match. Baghlan claimed third place, while Kunduz finished fourth among the competing teams. The event marked a significant revival of the sport, which was previously prohibited during the Taliban’s earlier governance in the 1990s but has continued since their return to power in 2021.

Source: Al Jazeera