Chariot racing

Chariot racing (Greek: ἁρματοδρομία, harmatodromía) is an equestrian sport highly popular in the Eastern Roman Empire, Italy, Egypt, the Near East, and Iran. Chariot racing is one of the oldest continuously played sports, with its origins tracing back to ancient civilizations such as the Mycenaeans. The sport has been played continuously since before the time of Constantine the Great (r. 306-337 AD), who supported and financed Constantinople's chariot racing infrastructure. The main forms of chariot racing are four-horse races (tethrippon) and two-horse races (synoris).

There are hundreds of hippodromes across the world, many of which are renowned for their size, historical significance, and architectural grandeur. Notable hippodromes include the Hippodrome of Constantinople, the New Circus Maximus in Rome, the Hippodrome of Antioch, and the Great Hippodrome of Jerusalem. Each of these venues has a capacity of more than 80,000 spectators, making them some of the largest entertainment venues in the world. The Hippodrome of Constantinople, in particular, is the heart of global chariot racing, hosting numerous weekly events that are pivotal in the social life of the city, and the country indeed.

An Olympic sport, chariot racing has been present as a discipline in the Olympic Games since their re-creation in 1896, a continuation of the ancient tradition where chariot racing was featured in the ancient Olympic Games. The 1896 Olympics in Athens saw the introduction of chariot racing in a modified form, utilizing at first two-horse and four-horse configurations, before the introduction of a single-horse race at the 1932 Summer Olympics. While it was already widely popular in the Eastern Roman Empire, its inclusion in the modern Olympics served to increase interest and participation in the sport across Europe and beyond.

The Prime Canon (Greek: Πρωταρχικός κανόνας, Protarchikós kanónas or Prōtarchikós kanónas) is the main competition in the realm of modern-day chariot racing. It involves a series of 26 races held bi-weekly in which charioteers represent the main four factions: the Blue, Green, Red, and White teams, each of which boasts of large fanbases. The fierce rivalries between these factions are a defining feature of the sport, leading to intense competition on and off the track. The Prime Canon has both four-horse and two-horse divisions; in the main one, the four-horse race, eight charioteers (two per team) race for twelve laps, while in the two-horse race, sixteen charioteers (four per team) race for seven laps. The competition is uniquely held in Constantinople.

In the Minor Circuits (Greek: Μικρά κυκλώματα, Mikrá kyklómata or Mikrá kyklṓmata), there are dozens of stables and public organizations that race multiple times per day throughout the empire. These are smaller events that feature local talent, and drivers must excel in the circuits to progress to the more prestigious Prime Canon. The Minor Circuits also serve as a training ground, where competitors hone their skills and strategies in a less pressurized environment. Each Minor Circuit typically comprises around 10-15 races per day, attracting smaller but dedicated audiences who are keen to support their favorite local teams. In the Minor Circuits, ethnic organizations, Orthodox parishes, neighborhoods, and political groups often sponsor individual charioteers or entire teams. At the end of the year, the Great Race of Constantinople is held, gathering the top drivers of the circuit for a chance to secure promotion to the Prime Canon. The Great Race is one of the highlights of the racing calendar, and draws millions of spectators worldwide.

Modern-day chariot races feature technologically advanced chariots, equipped with innovations that enhance speed and safety. Safety harnesses, protective gear for both charioteers and horses, modern wheels, and the removal of scythes from the rims of chariots have significantly reduced the risks traditionally associated with the sport. The top charioteers are among the most famous and most well-paid athletes in the world, as private betting and sponsorships have led to lucrative financial opportunities. Drivers can either compete as individuals or as members of one of the many public and private organizations that dominate the sport's landscape.