Amsterdam’s Drag Olympics returned for its 22nd annual edition, turning sport into a colorful spectacle with high-heeled races, handbag tosses and a crowd eager to cheer every dramatic moment. The event, held Friday, is described as the world’s largest sporting competition dedicated to drag.

One of the standout scenes came on the high-heel sprint track, where performers in leopard print and fishnets launched from the starting line as the audience roared them on. The mix of athletic effort, costume flair and playful performance gave the races their signature energy.

The Amsterdam Drag Olympics has built its identity around campy competition, combining classic sporting formats with drag style and humor. That approach has helped the event grow into a major annual celebration that draws attention not just for the contests themselves, but for the atmosphere surrounding them.

This year’s edition once again showed why the event remains a fixture on Amsterdam’s cultural calendar. With bold outfits, theatrical races and a packed crowd, the Drag Olympics delivered a festive showcase of performance, community and celebration.