FINALLY! CLIMBING WILL HAVE 3 MEDAL CATEGORIES AT 2028 OLYMPICS

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has officially confirmed that climbing will feature three separate medal events at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games — a major victory for the sport and its global community.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has officially confirmed that climbing will feature three separate medal events at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games — a major victory for the sport and its global community.

After its combined debut in Tokyo 2021 and the revised two-discipline format in Paris 2024, the 2028 Olympics will include individual medals for Lead, Boulder, and Speed climbing. This long-anticipated change marks a milestone in the evolution of competitive climbing.

What It Means for the Sport

Climbers and fans have long voiced concerns that combining different disciplines into a single medal event fails to reflect the diversity and specialization of the sport. Now, with three distinct events, athletes can focus on their strongest discipline — and the audience gets to see the best of each.

IFSC President Marco Scolaris praised the decision:
“This is a recognition of our athletes’ hard work and the unique character of each climbing discipline. It’s a huge step forward for the sport worldwide.”

What to Expect in LA 2028

Speed Climbing: A standalone event, showcasing explosive power and lightning-fast reflexes.

Boulder: A dynamic event requiring problem-solving, strength, and finesse on short but complex routes.

Lead: Endurance and mental stamina will be tested on long, challenging routes.

Each event will award its own set of medals for both men and women, doubling the number of climbing medals compared to Tokyo 2021.

A Win for Climbing’s Future

This shift not only gives athletes the recognition they deserve but is also expected to boost youth participation and funding across national federations.

Croatia’s own national team coach, Ana Petković, welcomed the news:
“Now our young climbers can train with a clear goal in mind. It’s exciting and motivating for everyone involved in the sport.”

With this new format, the 2028 Olympics promise to bring climbing even closer to the global spotlight — on its own terms.