Internationaux Professionnels de Cesta Punta

Internationaux de Cesta Punta: The Spectacle of Basque Pelota

The Internationaux Professionnels de Cesta Punta are the flagship event of Basque pelota in Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Every summer, the Jaï Alaï, a magnificent covered fronton located on avenue André Ithurralde, hosts the most prestigious competition of this unique discipline in the world.

Cesta Punta: The Fastest Sport in the World

Cesta punta is the most spectacular discipline of Basque pelota. Players, equipped with a large wicker basket (the cesta), throw the ball against the fronton at speeds exceeding 300 km/h, with an average of 200 km/h. This sport demands an exceptional combination of skill, power, and reflexes, offering a striking spectacle for spectators.

An Elite Competition

The Internationaux bring together the twenty best professional players in the world, from France, Spain, and the United States. The competition takes place over several weeks, with matches played on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the Jaï Alaï. The tournament format allows spectators to follow the players' progress throughout the summer, up to the final stages that crown the champion.

A Festive and Family Atmosphere

Beyond the sporting competition, evenings at the Jaï Alaï are true moments of celebration. The festive and friendly atmosphere, traditional betting, and Basque gastronomy make every evening an event in itself. The Internationaux de Cesta Punta contribute to the preservation and promotion of Basque pelota, an intangible cultural heritage of the Basque Country.