In Pakistan, It’s not bull running — it’s high-speed racing

Team members struggle to control and line up a pair of bulls before a traditional bull race in Malal village, Attock district.

Team members shout as a pair of bulls take off at the start of a traditional bull race in Malal village, Attock district.

In Attock’s heartland, bull racing is more than sport; it’s a living tradition.. Bull racing has deep roots in the Attock district of eastern Punjab province. It is more than just a sport; it is a part of the region’s living heritage.

In the village of Malal, one of bull racing’s most vibrant hubs, hundreds of people gather yearly to witness the spectacle. Jockeys crouch behind the animals on a plank, gripping some reins and relying on experience and instinct to triumph.

Hawkers hold colourful ribbons and other items using to decorate bull as they wait for customers at the venue of a traditional bull race competition, in Malal

A jockey controls a pair of bull during a traditional bull race competition, in Malal, a village of Attock district, in Pakistan.

A member of the judges’ panel announces the winners at the end of a traditional bull race in Malal, a village in Pakistan’s Attock district.

Team members dance in celebration after winning a traditional bull race in Malal, a village in Pakistan’s Attock district.

A vendor prepares traditional sweets called 'Jalebi' at his stall during a bull race event in Malal village.

Team members throw currency notes in the air as they celebrate their win at a traditional bull race in Malal, Attock district.