Chiara Zgraggen

Chiara Zgraggen is a journalist and history student at the University of Lucerne and works as a research assistant at Swiss Sports History and the Institute Cultures of the Alps.

Fighting in and out of the ring

Chiara Zgraggen 01.09.2023 Schwingen, the traditional, homegrown style of wrestling, is as much a part of Switzerland as chocolate and watches. At least, as long as it’s men who are donning the breeches. But when it comes to women’s involvement in the sport, it’s a whole different story ‒ one that has caused quite a few scandals.

The first women’s wrestling event in Aeschi bei Spiez attracted some 15,000 spectators (of both sexes).