Dursunköy Holds 11th Traditional Oil Wrestling Festival in Istanbul

The 11th edition of the traditional oil wrestling (yağlı güreş) festival took place in Dursunköy, a neighbourhood in the Arnavutköy district of Istanbul. Organized by the Arnavutköy Municipality, the event is listed in the Turkish Traditional Wrestling Federation’s 2026 calendar and attracted numerous başpehlivan (chief wrestlers) and pehlivan from across Turkey.

Officials highlighted the growing popularity of yağlı güreş. Başpehlivan Mustafa Taş said the sport has gained “great momentum in the last five years” and praised Mayor Mustafa Candaroğlu for supporting the event. Former champion Erkan Taş recalled competing as a child and now participating as a başpehlivan, noting the festival’s “Kırkpınar‑like atmosphere.” Municipal council member Ercan Döner and deputy mayor Gökhan Kurt emphasized the event’s role in preserving the heritage and inspiring younger generations.