Performers sing traditional music during the regional final of the 26th edition of the Drapeau du Chef de l'Etat national wrestling championship at the National Wrestling Arena in Pikine on July 25, 2026. Traditional wrestlers from 14 different regions of Senegal participated in the 26th edition of the Drapeau du Chef de l'Etat national wrestling championship, which returned to the Dakar region after more than two decades, and saw the Fatick region claim the title in the Regional Category for the sixth time. Senegalese traditional wrestling, known as Laamb in the Wolof language, is deeply rooted in Senegalese culture and its traditions, especially among the Serer and Diola communities. It can be practiced with or without striking, the former allowing wrestlers to use bare-handed strikes to the face and body. Spirituality plays a major role in Laamb, with wrestlers performing rituals and dances that can begin several hours before a bout. Teams are surrounded by bottles containing various traditional ritual preparations, which are poured over wrestlers in a specific order according to the instructions of their marabouts. Necklaces and amulets are used not only to provide strength and protection but also, according to traditional beliefs, to hinder opponents. (Photo by PATRICK MEINHARDT / AFP via Getty Images)