Sport Climbing at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles

Overview

Sport climbing will continue its rise as one of the most thrilling and modern additions to the Olympic program at the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles. Combining strength, agility, and problem-solving, the sport challenges athletes to conquer walls in record time or with maximum precision.

Venue

The climbing competitions are expected to be held at a purpose-built outdoor and indoor facility in Los Angeles, designed to showcase the spectacle of climbing to large audiences. The venue will feature towering walls, dynamic routes, and spectator-friendly viewing areas to highlight the drama of each climb.

Events

Olympic sport climbing includes three distinct disciplines:

• Speed Climbing: Athletes race head-to-head up a standardized 15-meter wall, testing explosive power and precision.

• Bouldering: Climbers attempt short, technical routes on low walls without ropes, judged on problem-solving and creativity.

• Lead Climbing: Competitors climb as high as possible on a tall wall within a set time, testing endurance and strategy.

At Los Angeles 2028, these disciplines are expected to be contested both individually and in combined formats, ensuring a comprehensive test of climbing skills.

Competition Format

Athletes progress through qualification rounds to finals, with scoring systems tailored to each discipline. In combined events, performances across speed, bouldering, and lead are aggregated to determine medalists. Both men’s and women’s competitions will be held, with qualification based on international rankings and continental events.