NEW HORIZONS. ANCIENT TRADITIONS.
World Nomad Games, Kyrgyzstan in 2026
Team U.S.A. officially announced its roster and campaign for the 2026 World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan, taking place this Autumn from August 31 to September 6, 2026. September marks the end of seasonal migration for nomads when a new cycle begins with a "toy" - a celebration with rituals, games, and gatherings. The World Nomad Games are the OLYMPICS of Ancient Culture, focusing on sports practiced by the nomadic tribes of Central Asia. Over 90 nations will compete in events such as horse racing, horse competitions, national wrestling styles, traditional strength sports, intellectual games, archery, and cultural traditions that date back millennia. Team U.S.A.'s delegation will compete in the Sport of "Kok-Boru.”
THE SPORT IS ANCIENT.
Nomadic tribes first developed the game 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.
THE HORSES ARE FIERCE.
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.
THE RIDERS ARE FEARLESS.
Representing a unique fusion of American rodeo and combat sports heritage, Team U.S.A.'s delegation features top-tier American athletes and former U.S. Marine Corps. service-members. The spirit of the nomad is deeply intertwined with the American ethos of resilience, and a profound connection to the land and animals.
Sport "Kok-Boru"
U.S.A. HorseBack Wrestling:
“Kok-Boru” also known as “Goat Polo” or "HorseBack Wrestling" as belovedly nicknamed by Team U.S.A., is the ultimate test of horse-riding strength, connecting American Western Heritage with Ancient Nomadic Traditions. It’s the Western Frontier meets the Nomadic Steppe, reminiscent of the American “Wild West,” and exemplifying the shared values of horsemanship, rugged individualism and resilience. These competitors exhibit a return to the Pioneer Spirit!
Watch on Netflix
The episode, simply titled "Kok Boru", explores the national sport of Kyrgyzstan. It provides a 25-minute, localized look into the dangerous and highly physical polo-like equestrian game where players battle to grab a dead animal carcass (or ulak) and score by throwing it into the opposing team's goal. The episode highlights the modern revival of the sport and the cultural pride it brings to the communities of Central Asia. (Home Game, Season 1, Episode 5).