There is also a piece of Italy on the 'dohyo' of the first Grand Sumo Tournament of 2025, just concluded in Tokyo, in the famous temple of Japanese wrestling, the Ryogoku Kokugikan. At the end of the competition, which saw the affirmation of the Ozeki Hoshoryu, and about to be promoted to the highest rank, of 'Yokozuna', the Ambassador of Italy Gianluigi Benedetti presented the winner with the 'Trophy of the Government of the Italian Republic', announced by the Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during her visit to Japan in February 2024 and donated to the National Sumo Association (Nihon Sumo Kyokai). The Trophy, made by the master glassmakers of the historic company Venini. famous throughout the world for its handcrafted products of excellence, is a glass cup, coloured gold in honour of the winner. The blue handles and red decorations recall the colours of Italy and Japan. The trophy will be repeatedly presented to the winner of each of the six annual Grand Sumo Tournament editions held in various cities of the archipelago. On the occasion, the Italian Embassy, in cooperation with Italian importers, will donate a wide selection of Italian wines to the winner of each tournament to promote and valorise the excellence of Made in Italy wines. Ambassador Benedetti, recalling the relationship of great friendship and cooperation that has linked Italy and Japan for over 150 years, emphasised that the two countries share values, policies and objectives, as also emerged during the respective G7 Presidencies, and since January 2023 have elevated bilateral relations to Strategic Partnership. The Italian Trophy is a concrete testimony of the historical and cultural depth of the relationship between the two nations.
Sumo's origins date back to the early 6th century, rooted in the ancient rituals of the Shinto religion. Far beyond a simple combat sport, Sumo is considered a true art form in Japan. Wrestlers are divided into ranks, with the highest rung - that of Yokozuna - reserved for wrestlers who, in addition to results, demonstrate the moral qualities necessary for the title. The Yokozuna must embody the ideal sumo wrestler, transforming himself into a Shinto semi-divinity.
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