Insights from Athletes at the 2025 IFSC Climbing World Cup in Madrid

The IFSC Climbing World Cup in Comunidad de Madrid, Spain, recently showcased its fifth Lead World Cup competition, attracting elite climbers from across the globe. This year's event not only highlighted the exceptional skills of the athletes but also provided a platform for them to express their aspirations and experiences, particularly in a sport that is gaining visibility in Spain.

Lucía Sempere González, an up-and-coming climber from Spain, shared her feelings ahead of her first World Cup event, stating, "I’m nervous. It’s my first World Cup so I’m also really, really excited. I’m excited to compete with the big names in our sport from around the world, but that also makes me really, really nervous. I don’t feel any pressure though as it’s my first World Cup, so that’s fine." Sempere's enthusiasm reflects the growing interest in sport climbing within Spain, a sentiment she emphasized: "It's really important for us because here in Spain there’s not a lot of visibility of Sport Climbing so I think it’s really good for our country and our team. People can see that we exist, and that’s really good for us."

Highlighting the significance of local support, Sempere noted, "Us Spanish people, we are so crazy, so I think the crowd will be so good and they will shout a lot. It’s going to be hot, but the crowd is going to be amazing." Her comments underscore the vital role of community engagement in fostering the sport’s development.

The event not only served as a competitive arena but also as a critical qualifier for upcoming Olympic events, including the Paris 2024 Games and the LA28 Olympic Games, where climbing will feature prominently. According to the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC), the integration of climbing into the Olympic program has significantly increased its visibility and popularity.

Dr. Mark Thompson, a sports sociologist at the University of Kent, remarked, "The inclusion of climbing in the Olympics has transformed the sport’s landscape, drawing in new athletes and audiences. Events like the IFSC Climbing World Cup are crucial for building a fan base and encouraging youth participation."

The competition in Alcobendas also provided insights into the athletes' training regimens and the mental fortitude required to excel in such a physically demanding sport. Elite climbers such as Janja Garnbret, reigning Olympic champion, emphasized the importance of mental preparation. Garnbret stated, “Climbing is as much about mental strength as it is about physical ability. Each competition is a new challenge, and I always aim to improve my focus.”

As climbing continues to grow globally, the IFSC has implemented various initiatives to ensure sustainable growth. This includes anti-doping measures and efforts to promote inclusivity within the sport. According to a report by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), maintaining integrity in competitive sports is essential for fostering trust among athletes and fans alike.

The IFSC is also advocating for better facilities and training opportunities in regions where sport climbing is less established. As noted in a 2023 report by the European Council for Sport, "Investment in climbing facilities across Europe could yield significant returns in terms of athlete development and international competitiveness."

As the athletes prepare for the next rounds of the World Cup, the impact of their performances extends beyond the competition itself, inspiring a new generation of climbers and solidifying sport climbing's place in the global sporting arena. The upcoming events will be crucial not only for individual athletes but also for the sport's continued evolution on the international stage. The future of climbing looks promising, with the potential for further growth and recognition as it approaches the Olympic spotlight.