The World Masters competition for aufguss, a sauna sport combining storytelling, theatrical performance, and scent infusion, was held last weekend at the Satama Sauna Resort and Spa near Berlin, Germany. The event attracted participants from multiple countries, including Britain, which was represented by Kyle Buttner, the 34-year-old national champion.

Aufguss is a ritual lasting around 15 minutes, during which a sauna master guides an audience through an immersive experience using heat, steam, essential oils, and choreographed towel movements to circulate the steam and aromas. Performers often incorporate costumes, music, lighting, and narratives to create a theatrical presentation.

Buttner described the competition as somewhat akin to Eurovision due to its theatrical and occasionally playful nature. He recounted that in the previous year’s competition, he performed with a team a three-part sauna show based on an urban legend about Freddie Mercury and Princess Diana secretly visiting the Royal Vauxhall Tavern, a well-known London gay bar. This performance combined elements such as Earl Grey tea, music, and royal waving to convey the story.

This year, Buttner chose a more serious theme, focusing on Hurricane Katrina, drawing inspiration from his mother’s roots in New Orleans. He noted parallels between the hot, humid, and sticky environment of the sauna and the city's climate. Despite his efforts, Buttner did not place among the top finishers. An Italian competitor took first place, Romania came in second, and the Czech Republic secured third. Buttner noted that top positions are often claimed by Czech competitors, reflecting regional strength in the discipline.

Deborah Carr, founder of the British Sauna Society and Aufguss UK, served on the jury at the event. She explained that aufguss is both a sensory and theatrical ritual that combines heat, aromas, and storytelling to provide sauna patrons with a unique, immersive experience, often likening it to a theatrical production.

Although Britain did not secure a podium finish, Buttner expressed satisfaction with his participation, emphasizing his goal of promoting and expanding the popularity of aufguss in London and across the UK. The event highlighted growing international interest in the sport, which remains relatively niche but has a dedicated following in parts of Europe.