SPØTTRUP, Denmark (AP) — With swords, axes and shields, competitors from 30 countries are going head-to-head in the grounds of a Danish fortress in a modern version of old-fashioned battle.The International Medieval Combat Federation’s annual world championship roared into gear in northern Denmark this week. First staged in Spain in 2014, it features armor-clad competitors fighting with 14th-century medieval weapons. But it’s also a modern combat sport with safety rules and sporting conventions.A mixture of historical and modern techniques“It’s historically inspired,” combat federation spokesperson Kamila Studencka said. “It’s a mix of modern techniques with historical ones. We have something between full combat sports and fencing.”
And while the swords and axes are blunted, the battles are anything but harmless reenactments. Studencka said some competitors are attracted by “the violence,” while others prefer the technical aspects of face-to-face duels.
Two fighters battle during the International Medieval Combat Federation’s World Championship at Spottrup Castle, in Spottrup, Denmark, Thursday, July 23, 2026. (AP Photo/James Brooks)
“Some people like the friendship and being a team member … to be a part of something bigger,” she added.This year’s championship is being held in the shadow of Spøttrup Castle, a formidable Danish fortress that was completed around 1520.The event has drawn fighters from 30 countries, including the United States, Canada, China, and Brazil.
