On a dirt field on Mexico’s Pacific coast, children from the Osuna family are reviving the ancient ballgame known as ulama, which has roots dating back over 3,400 years. The game, played with a heavy rubber ball, is a unique part of Mexico’s cultural heritage, having nearly disappeared after the Spanish conquest. As Mexico gears up to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there is a renewed interest in ulama, with families like the Osunas teaching younger generations to keep the tradition alive. Despite the sport’s revival benefiting from tourism, players express concern about preserving its cultural significance rather than reducing it to an “exotic” spectacle. The Osuna family, particularly María Herrera, is committed to passing on this pre-Hispanic ritual, emphasizing its importance to their identity and community.
Why It Matters
Ulama is one of the oldest team sports in the Americas, with historical significance that includes cultural rituals and social gatherings among pre-Hispanic civilizations like the Olmecs and Maya. The game faced near extinction due to colonial suppression, particularly from Spanish authorities who viewed it as a threat to Christianity. Today, the revival of ulama reflects broader efforts to reclaim and celebrate indigenous heritage in Mexico, especially in the context of a global sports event like the FIFA World Cup. This revival underscores the importance of cultural identity and the role of traditional practices in contemporary society.
Want More Context? 🔎
