NEW HORIZONS. ANCIENT TRADITIONS.
VI World Nomad Games, Kyrgyzstan in 2026
Team U.S.A. Kok Boru at the 2026 World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan, with Secretary General, Kuvvatbek Askarbekov, of the International Kok Boru Federation. The International Kok Boru Federation single-handedly supported Team U.S.A. throughout the World Nomad Games from August 25, 2026 through September 7, 2026. Our gratitude to the IKBF!
The World Nomad Games are the OLYMPICS of Ancient Culture, focusing on sports practiced by the nomadic tribes of Central Asia. Over 100 nations competed in events such as horse racing, horse competitions, national wrestling styles, traditional strength sports, intellectual games, archery, and cultural traditions.
VI WORLD NOMAD GAMES, KYRGYZSTAN IN 2026
VI World Nomad Games, Kyrgyzstan in 2026
Nomadic tribes first developed the games over a millennium ago as military training. It was used to display strength, test horsemanship, and simulate the chaotic, physical nature of retrieving fallen riders in battle, and also a way to practice hunting down wolves that preyed on their livestock.
Nomadic horses gained global historical prominence in the 13th century, when they served as the primary mount and lifeline of Genghis Khan's Mongol Empire. Their unparalleled stamina and ability to survive solely off the land allowed nomads to conquer and traverse massive expanses of Eurasia.
Representing a unique fusion of American rodeo and combat sports heritage, Team U.S.A.'s delegation features top-tier American athletes. The spirit of the nomad is deeply intertwined with the American ethos of resilience, and a profound connection to the land and animals.