NEOM, November 14, 2024 – The NEOM IFSC Masters, the third event of the NEOM Beach Games, captivated audiences with the skill and intensity of 93 elite sport climbers from 31 countries competing against the striking backdrop of NEOM’s Mountain Village in Bajdah. Set amidst NEOM's natural rock formations, the event crowned Manuel Cornu and Agathe Calliet as champions in the boulder discipline, while Amir Maimuratov and Rajiah Sallsabillah clinched top spots in the speed climbing category.
A key highlight of the competition was the participation of emerging talents, including Samuel Watson, the youngest world-ranked climber from the recent Paris 2024 Olympics. He was among 18 Olympians who showcased their skills at NEOM, a destination quickly becoming known for attracting both experienced champions and promising athletes from around the world.
Beyond the thrill of competition, the NEOM IFSC Masters emphasized community involvement, with the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) leading workshops for locals on the climbing wall. This initiative not only promoted the sport within the region but also demonstrated NEOM's commitment to fostering engagement and skill-building in sport climbing. Participants gained hands-on experience, learning directly from international athletes and IFSC representatives, helping to bridge local interest with the global sport community.
Jan Paterson, Managing Director of NEOM Sport, emphasized NEOM's dedication to expanding sports accessibility in the Kingdom: “NEOM’s commitment to making dynamic sports accessible in the Kingdom goes beyond competition. As interest in sport climbing grows alongside an appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s natural landscapes, NEOM partnered with the Saudi Hiking and Climbing Federation to invite 40 local amateur climbers to participate, offering them a unique opportunity to develop new techniques, enhance their skills, and build connections with elite climbers.”
The IFSC also highlighted the significance of NEOM’s role in the sport’s growth. Pierre You, IFSC Treasurer and Executive Board Member, expressed enthusiasm for the event’s impact: “On behalf of the IFSC, I was very happy to welcome the athletes participating in the second edition of the NEOM IFSC Masters. It has been an incredible season for sport climbing, following the success of the Olympic Games. We were delighted to share the experience of the NEOM Beach Games 2024 with other sports that joined us in Paris. Together with the organizers and the Saudi Hiking and Climbing Federation, we hope to use this event to drive the development of our sport in Saudi Arabia.”
The NEOM IFSC Masters is part of NEOM’s broader vision to establish itself as a leader in sports innovation and excellence, leveraging international partnerships to elevate Saudi Arabia’s sports landscape. The event not only enhances NEOM’s standing as a global sports hub but also demonstrates its commitment to community and youth involvement, as it continues to drive forward the region’s sports ambitions.
Meanwhile, the NEOM Beach Games continue with the NEOM Beach Soccer Cup, which began on November 13 and runs for four days, featuring 12 teams in both men’s and women’s categories competing across 24 thrilling matches.
