The IFSC Climbing World Cup Innsbruck 2025 (June 23–29) has come to a close, and once again proved why Innsbruck-Tyrol is regarded as a true climbing mecca and a standout event on the World Cup calendar. With 18,000 spectators in attendance and glowing praise from athletes, the event was a resounding success.
Janja Garnbret Steals the Show – Again
Slovenia’s Janja Garnbret, the two-time Olympic champion, was once again the star of the event. For the fourth time (after 2021, 2023, and 2024), she claimed the coveted Innsbruck double – victories in both Bouldering and Lead. Her decision to kick off her World Cup season in Innsbruck speaks volumes about the event’s importance.
“I love Innsbruck – it feels like a second home. The support from the fans is unmatched. That’s why I make it a point to compete here every year,” said a visibly moved Garnbret.
The crowd responded with overwhelming support, filling the open-air arena at the Innsbruck Climbing Center even during the early qualification rounds. After the competitions, hundreds lined up for Garnbret’s autograph – a moment that left her in tears.
“The atmosphere in Innsbruck is breathtaking year after year. I can only say thank you.”
Special Moments All Around
The men’s competition nearly saw an Innsbruck double as well. Olympic champion Toby Roberts (GBR) followed up his Bouldering win with a second-place finish in Lead. A frequent visitor to the Innsbruck Climbing Center, Roberts praised the crowd: “What’s happening here is incredible. Winning in Innsbruck is truly something special.”
For Austria, Nicolai Užnik caused a stir by reaching the Bouldering final, breaking through after two underwhelming World Cup appearances. “Climbing in the final here at home was a really special moment. I’ll never forget it – it gives me a big boost for the rest of the season.”
In Paraclimbing, Austria’s Jasmin Plank (RP2) and Angelino Zeller (AL1) claimed home victories. “It’s definitely the most important World Cup of the year for Paraclimbing,” said Zeller. Plank summed it up simply: “There’s nothing like competing at home.”
18,000 Fans, Unforgettable Energy
Even without local stars Jessica Pilz and Jakob Schubert – both sidelined with injuries – the energy never dipped. Over the course of the week, 18,000 fans packed the open-air venue, creating a goosebump-inducing atmosphere. Every ticketed session was sold out in advance.
“The fact that the venue is packed and the fans are cheering for everyone, even without Austrian finalists – that says everything about this event and about Innsbruck,” said a clearly impressed Schubert.
Rising Stars Step Into the Spotlight
Several young Austrian climbers made their presence felt. In Lead, 19-year-olds Ines Schwaiger (29th), Magdalena Kompein (31st), and Timo Užnik (34th) earned valuable experience in their World Cup debuts. In Bouldering, Raffael Gruber (19) placed 33rd.
“It’s important for us as a federation to give our homegrown talents a strong platform – especially our younger athletes. This event should inspire them to one day stand in a semifinal or final here, in front of this incredible crowd,” said KVÖ managing director Heiko Wilhelm.
“A Showcase for Our Sport”
“A huge shoutout to the entire team,” Wilhelm continued. “The feedback from the athletes shows that we’ve created something truly special. Innsbruck-Tyrol showcases competition climbing at its finest – this is pure promotion for our sport and a flagship event for the entire region.”
Wilhelm also pointed to a recent independent impact analysis of the 2024 edition: “37,000 overnight stays and more than five million euros in regional economic impact – those are strong numbers. We’ll continue working hard to make the IFSC Climbing World Cup Innsbruck an unforgettable experience for fans and athletes alike.”
Julia Pinggera, World Cup coordinator for the Austrian Climbing Federation (KVÖ), was equally pleased: “All the hard work in the lead-up paid off – the athlete feedback was phenomenal. My personal highlight? Thousands of people standing in the rain during the men’s Bouldering final, still creating an electric atmosphere. Huge thanks to all the volunteers and everyone who made this week possible.”
