Competition rules

EnglandSumo domestic competitions follow the competition rules of the European Sumo Federation (EFS) and the International Sumo Federation (IFS) , so athletes train and compete under the same framework used in European and World events.

There is one documented England exception below: direct headstrikes are not allowed in England competition.

Last updated: 2026-09-22.

See also: Competing in sumo in England, Refereeing, The procedure for a bout, Adapted sumo, Run a competition, Basic bout rules, Governance, British Sumo, and Sumo rules (Sumo Cup) .

EFS and IFS rules

Unless an England-specific exception is published (as with headstrikes), EnglandSumo events apply EFS and IFS competition rules for bout conduct, illegal techniques, and referee decisions. Athletes travelling to European or World competition should expect the parent federation rules for that event.

The Sumo Code

Alongside the regulations, the sumo sponsors global code of conduct for everyone involved in the sport. It is the closest the sport has to a single set of stated values, and EnglandSumo athletes and officials are expected to uphold it.

Through the love and respect for sumo and through the practice of it, we shall develop strong body and spirit, so that we may contribute greatly to society as respectable person, both physically and mentally. We shall also strive to spread sumo throughout the world so that many people around the world will love this wonderful sport.

The code's guidance for Sumo Athletes:

• shall always be aware and proud of their sportspersonship, strive for good health, and live a clear and disciplined life
• shall aim to improve their skills and maintain and promote their health
• must conduct themselves in a courteous manner, showing respect to their opponent, regardless of whether they win or lose, and find satisfaction in making their own best effort
• must observe the rules, follow the instructions and decisions of the judges, and always compete in the spirit of fair play
• shall endeavour to constantly pursue their potential tirelessly with diligence and individuality based on rational and scientific thinking
• shall endeavour to cultivate a rich spirit of respect for all, and show care and consideration for others
• must constantly strive to promote the sport so that everyone can easily become familiar with and involved in sumo

Winning and losing a bout

• Win: Force the opponent out of the dohyo (the ring).
• Win: Make any part of the opponent's body other than the soles of the feet touch the ground inside the ring.
• Loss: Step or be pushed out of the dohyo.
• Loss: Touch the ground inside the ring with any part of the body other than the soles of the feet.

Not allowed in sumo

• Punching: No punches to any part of the body.
• Kicking: No kicks.
• Strangles (chokes): No choking or strangling.
• Joint locks: No joint manipulations or locks.
• Non-mawashi grips: Only the mawashi may be gripped; the tatemawashi (rear vertical part) and orikomi and locked-hand "gassho" holds must be released immediately.

Plus one documented England exception below: direct headstrikes are not allowed in England competition.

Stopping and restarting a bout

• False start (premature charge): The gyoji calls "Matta!" (wait) and the tachiai is restarted.
• Incomplete tachiai: The head judge raises a hand to stop the bout and it is begun again immediately.
• Loose mawashi: Both athletes freeze in their grip; the belt is retied and the bout restarts from that position.
• Disputed or unclear finish: The judges confer (mono-ii) and may order a re-match (torinaoshi).

Officials

• Gyoji (referee): Takes the tachiai, calls the action, and announces the winner from inside the ring.
• Shimpan (judges): Watch from ringside, may stop or review decisions, and confer on close finishes.
• Head judge: Leads judges' deliberations and can stop an incomplete start.

For competitors and for referees

These are the shared rules. Each side applies them with a different focus:

• Competitors — see Competing in sumo in England for rules in athlete-sized terms, the calls you will hear, and what to expect on competition day.
• Referees — see Refereeing and referees, the procedure for a bout, and the no-direct-headstrikes enforcement page.

No direct headstrikes (England)

In England, direct headstrikes are not allowed — especially slapping the face or head at the tachiai. See Competition rules — no direct headstrikes (England) for the full rule, consequences, and enforcement (from the referee's side).