The charmingly unorthodox spectacle that is the World Outdoor Tug of War Championships is returning to England this autumn – this time on the lush turf of Nottingham’s University of Nottingham Highfields Sports Complex from 4-7 September 2025.
What may look like a simple backyard game is, in fact, a high-stakes, meticulously organised test of team strength, strategy, and stamina. And what better way to embrace the quirky and communal spirit of this ancient contest than to gather around a giant rope, cheering as nations and clubs alike battle it out?
History and heritage
Tug of war isn’t just kids playing in their backyard – it boasts a serious pedigree. With roots stretching back to ancient Egypt (over 2500 BCE), ancient China and Greece, the sport was practiced both ceremonially and as warrior training. Europe embraced it in medieval fairs, and England later formalised it in the 1800s. Tug of war even earned its place in the Olympic Games between 1900 and 1920, featuring top teams of five to eight men. Its presence faded from the Olympics but endured through grassroots clubs, World Games, and Tug of War International Federation (TWIF) championships.
Nottingham’s global showcase
In April 2025, the Tug of War International Federation (TWIF) elevated the event from a European contest to a full world championship, now held annually – and Nottingham was selected to host. This marks its first return to the city since 1973 and the first time England has hosted since 2000. The tournament welcomes club teams for the first two days of competition, followed by national teams over the weekend, with varied divisions for men, women, mixed, juniors, and under‑23 squads.
With around 1,500 to 2,000 competitors from more than 20 countries expected, the event will bring athletes – and their cheering crews – to the heart of Nottingham. Spectators gain free entry, special rates are available at nearby Orchard and Jubilee hotels, and thanks to the local tram network, the venue is easy to reach.
Christine Bailey, assistant director of sport at the University of Nottingham, said: “It’s fantastic to see this event re-classified as a world championship. The University of Nottingham and Nottingham Venues has a strong track record of hosting major sports events, and we are delighted to play our part in bringing this competition to England. As a global university, we are proud to welcome athletes and supporters from around the world to our campus and the city of Nottingham. This event will bring with it significant social and economic benefits to our local community and further enriches the vibrant sporting scene here.”
Strength and strategy
Make no mistake: tug of war is as tactical as it is physical. The eight-person teams strive to drag the marked centreline four metres toward their side using perfect synergy – heels dug in, bodies leaning in unison, and hands gripping the hemp or polypropylene rope. It’s a power‑endurance challenge, especially outdoors, where conditions underfoot add complexity and effort matters over technique.
It’s also about unity – missteps or momentum shifts can lose the pull in an instant. Coaches speak of deep camaraderie forged through countless hours of training, a bond that often outlasts golden victories.
As Nottingham gears up to host this vibrant contest – complete with international camaraderie, festive atmosphere, and pure raw power – it showcases a sport that, while quirky in setup, represents traditional athletic ideals. From ancient Egypt to modern-day UK, tug of war remains a celebration of teamwork, heritage, and universal appeal.
For more information see tugofwar2025.com, visit-nottinghamshire.co.uk, and tugofwar-twif.org
Main image credit: tugofwar2025.com