Climbing to New Heights: The IFSC World Cup Returns to Prague

The International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) and the Local Organising Committee have exciting news for climbing enthusiasts around the globe: the Climbing World Cup Series will return to Prague in 2026 and 2028. This announcement marks a significant milestone for the Czech capital, further establishing its prominence on the international climbing scene.

A Thriving Legacy

Prague made its grand debut on the Climbing World Cup calendar in 2023, and it quickly became a cherished venue for athletes and fans alike. The city’s breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture provided a stunning backdrop for the thrilling competitions. Following the inaugural event, Prague hosted a second edition in September 2024, which was met with rave reviews. Now, as the third competition gets underway in 2025, it’s clear that Prague has quickly become one of the most anticipated stops on the World Cup circuit.

The enthusiasm for these competitions is palpable. Spectators flock to the venues, creating an electric atmosphere, while substantial international broadcasts have captivated audiences far and wide. As the crowds roar and the athletes showcase their skills, it’s evident that the Climbing World Cup in Prague is not just an event; it’s an exhilarating celebration of the sport.

New Dimensions: Boulder and Lead Disciplines

Looking ahead to the Summer of 2026, the excitement is set to grow even further. The event will broaden its scope to include both Boulder and Lead disciplines, promising an all-encompassing climbing experience for spectators. This dual-event format is particularly special for Adam Ondra, the Czech climbing legend. Having announced that the 2025 Boulder World Cup will be his last, he’ll have the chance to dazzle his home crowd in Praha when he competes in the Lead discipline in 2026. The energy and support from local fans will surely add a unique layer of significance to his performance.

Broader Horizons: 2027 World Championships in Brno

But the excitement doesn’t stop at the World Cup. Czechia is poised to enhance its reputation as a climbing hub further as it prepares to host the IFSC Climbing and Para Climbing World Championships in 2027, signaling a major expansion of the nation’s role in the sport. Scheduled to take place in Brno, this event will further illustrate the country’s commitment to climbing excellence and its ongoing efforts to foster a thriving climbing community.

Voices of Pride and Passion

IFSC President Marco Scolaris expressed his enthusiasm for the event’s continued presence in Prague, stating, “I am glad to see that the IFSC programme to secure a rich calendar for the years to come is resulting in more and more great events like Prague confirmed for several successive seasons.” His words reflect a growing recognition of Prague as a vital player on the global climbing stage.

Echoing this sentiment, Jan Bloudek, President of the Czech Climbing Federation and IFSC Europe Board Member, shared his pride in the achievements of the Czech climbing community. “Over the past three years, our team has worked tirelessly to create a world-class event in Prague. The response from fans and athletes alike has been incredible.” His passion is evident, and it serves as a reminder of the hard work that has gone into making these events not just possible but successful and memorable.

A Bright Future for Czech Climbing

As the IFSC World Cup series looks toward the next two editions in Prague, the future of climbing in Czechia is bright. The city’s remarkable ability to host such prestigious events, combined with the country’s budding talent in the sport, positions it as a critical player on the international climbing stage. With the excitement surrounding the World Cup and upcoming World Championships, Czechia is on the cusp of solidifying its legacy in the climbing world, inviting fans and athletes to share in the journey.