Sports can come with rituals that are just as important as the competition itself. Some look downright strange if you didn’t grow up with them.
1. Japan — Sumo Wrestlers Throw Salt
Before a sumo bout, wrestlers throw salt into the ring as part of a Shinto purification ritual. They also perform powerful leg stomps, rinse their mouths with water, and repeatedly face each other before finally charging.
The rituals can take longer than the actual bout.
2. England — Cricketers Stop for Tea
Test cricket can last up to five days, and players actually have scheduled tea breaks.
The traditional 20-minute tea interval is written into the official playing conditions, alongside a 40-minute lunch break. It is one of the world’s strangest examples of a major sport formally making time for refreshments.
3. Norway — Fans Perform a Viking Row
At the 2026 World Cup, Norwegian supporters turned a rowing motion into a viral fan ritual.
Fans sit or crouch in rows, move their arms like oars, and chant together. The celebration spread beyond stadiums, appearing in public spaces and even Times Square.
4. Argentina — Fans Throw “Papelitos”
Argentine football supporters have a long tradition of throwing tiny pieces of paper, or papelitos, into the air before matches.
The tradition became so deeply associated with Argentine football that authorities once tried to stop it. Fans resisted, and the paper showers survived.
5. India — Cricket Fans Celebrate With Holi Colors
During some cricket celebrations, especially around major victories, fans have incorporated the colorful traditions associated with Holi.
Players and supporters can end up covered in bright powder, turning a sporting celebration into something resembling a street festival.
6. Bhutan — Archers Celebrate by Dancing
Archery is Bhutan’s national sport, and traditional competitions can look very different from Western tournaments.
After hitting the target, teammates and supporters may perform a celebratory dance and song beside the range. The competition becomes as much a community celebration as a sporting contest.