Sport Climbing

Comprehensive Guide to Sport Climbings Olympic Journey: Climbing Higher

History of Sport Climbings Olympic Journey

Sport climbing has rapidly evolved from a niche activity into a mainstream competitive sport. With its roots in outdoor adventure and a history of pushing physical and mental boundaries, the sport has garnered a passionate global following.

In recent years, the sport has attracted even more attention by being an official Olympic sport. Find out about Sport Climbings Olympic journey to become an Olympic sport below.


sport climbings olympic journey to become an Olympic sport

Bid for Inclusion

In December 2015, a sport climbined delegation composed of members of the Japanese Mountaineering Association (JMA) and the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) gave a presentation and did a Q&A session with the Tokyo 2020 Organizing Committee to make their bid for the inclusion of sport climbing at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics [Article].

It wasn’t until one year later, the world found out at that sport climbing would be added to the Tokyo Olympics sports programme following a decision by the 129th International Olympic Committee (IOC) session in Rio de Janeiro.


When was sport climbing first introduced to the Olympics?

The sport was first introduced at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where it was met with enthusiasm from both athletes and spectators. The introduction of the sport to the Olympics was a pivotal moment for sport climbing, as it introduced the sport to millions of new fans worldwide. It not only brought greater visibility to the sport, but attracted new sport climbing fans and inspired a whole new generation of climbers.

Sport climbings Olympic format at the Tokyo Games included three disciplines: speed climbing, bouldering, and lead climbing. In Tokyo, a combined format was used, where athletes competed in all three disciplines, with their overall performance determining their final ranking.


Was sport climbing at the 2024 Paris Olympics?

The sports success at the Tokyo Games has paved the way for sport climbing to be included in future Olympic games. Due to the success of the sport at its inaugural event, sport climbing was featured at the 2024 Paris Olympics from August 5th to 10th at Le Bourget Sport Climbing Venue.

For the Paris 2024 Olympics, the IOC and IFSC decided to separate speed climbing into its own medal event, allowing lead and bouldering to be combined in a separate event. This change reflects the unique skill set required for each of the disciplines and ensures that each discipline is showcased to its fullest potential.

Want to know more about the new Olympic format and point system, check out the article below.


Will sport climbing be in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics?

It is confirmed that Sport Climbings Olympic journey continues at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Summer Games. On February 3, 2022, during the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) 139th session, officials approved a proposal to include sport climbing at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics [Article].

The confirmation of sport climbing at the LA 2028 Olympic Games ensures it will remain a fixture in the Olympic program for years to come. The climbing community is eager to build on the momentum generated by the Tokyo Games, with athletes pushing the boundaries of what is possible and inspiring others to take up the sport.

Sport Climbings Olympic journey is a testament to the passion and dedication of the climbing community. What was once a niche activity has become a global phenomenon, celebrated for its unique blend of athleticism, strategy, and creativity. As the sport continues to evolve, there is no doubt that it will continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, both on and off the Olympic stage.


Sport Climbing as an Official Olympic Sport

Are you excited to see sport climbing as an official Olympic sport? Do you want to continue to see sport climbing at future Olympics? Excited about sport climbings olympic journey to become a sport? Let us know in the comments down below.