Bored of regular sports? Consider watching these alternative European sports instead

This summer, why not step off the beaten path and immerse yourself in some of Europe’s most unconventional sports? From the Finnish Wife Carrying Championship to the Dutch lake-leaping contest and the French wine marathon, these quirky events offer a fresh twist on traditional sporting experiences.

Happy Wife, Happy Life

One of the top alternative sports to watch is the Wife Carrying Championship in Finland (July 2025). This entertaining event invites couples to race through an obstacle course while the husband carries his wife.

Up next is Fierljeppen, Netherlands (until September). Known as “far-leaping,” this thrilling sport involves jumping over a body of water using a long pole. Also check out Concurs de Castille, Spain (October 5). Watch as teams build human towers, with children climbing up to complete the structure.

Time To Run

In France, watch the Marathon du Medoc (September 7). This 26.2-mile marathon is as much about fun as it is about fitness. Runners in fancy dress sample 23 wines and enjoy local delicacies like oysters, foie gras, and cheese along the route.

Coopers Hill Cheese Rolling, UK (May 2025): An exhilarating race where participants chase a wheel of cheese down a steep hill is another you should consider. Also watch Haggis Hurling, UK (June 2025). This Scottish tradition involves contestants throwing a haggis (a boiled sheep’s stomach) as far as possible from a platform.

More Sports

Those of you who don’t mind getting down and dirty, there’s the Mud Olympics, Germany (August 17). Dive into the fun at this muddy competition featuring football, handball, and a rubber boot toss or Hobby Horse Championship, Finland (June 2025). Watch as competitors showcase their skills on hobby horses in various disciplines.

Lastly, check out Air Guitar Championships, Finland (June 2025): A unique competition where participants perform air guitar solos or Turkish Oil Wrestling, Turkey (July 2025). Turkey’s oldest sport involves wrestling opponents while covered in olive oil.