A world-class cliff diving competition set against dramatic tropical scenery

Indonesia has reached a new milestone as Bali has been selected to host the opening event of the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series 2026. The international acrobatic cliff diving competition will kick off the 2026 season from May 20 to 23, marking Indonesia’s first appearance on the official calendar of this prestigious series. The event further strengthens Bali’s reputation as a world-class destination for nature-based sport tourism.

Recognized as one of the most prestigious extreme sports competitions globally, the event challenges athletes to dive from heights of 27 meters in the men’s category and 21 meters in the women’s category. These platforms are nearly three times higher than those used in Olympic diving. Within seconds, divers reach speeds of nearly 85 kilometers per hour before entering the water with exceptional precision. Each performance requires not only bravery, but also technical mastery, body control, and perfectly timed rotations.

Two iconic natural sites in Bali have been chosen as venues. Kroya Waterfall in Buleleng Regency will host the opening rounds. Surrounded by dense tropical forest, the location features a natural pool and dramatic cliff formations that create a striking yet challenging setting. The pristine environment is expected to provide a memorable start to the 2026 season.

The final competition will be held at T-Rex Cliff at Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the cliff is famous for its distinctive dinosaur-shaped silhouette. From this spectacular viewpoint, athletes will execute acrobatic dives into open waters, framed by sweeping ocean views and steep limestone cliffs.

A total of 24 elite male and female athletes from countries such as Australia, the United States, Canada, France, Romania, and Mexico have confirmed their participation. Each category will include 12 competitors, made up of eight permanent athletes and four wildcard entries. They will compete for the prestigious King Kahekili Trophy, with dives assessed by five international judges based on technique, artistic impression, aerial control, and water entry.

Among the prominent athletes set to compete in Bali are seven-time consecutive world champion Rhiannan Iffland, cliff diving legend Gary Hunt, who has achieved 80 podium finishes in 104 competitions, and Constantin Popovici, the record holder for the highest score in the history of the series.

In terms of technical, operational, and security arrangements, the event is being organized in collaboration with the Indonesian Navy as a strategic partner. Their involvement is expected to ensure the smooth and secure execution of the competition from preparation through to completion.

Bali’s selection as the season opener reflects its rich tropical landscape and distinctive cultural heritage, both of which complement the spirit of this extreme sport. By hosting this international event, Indonesia not only welcomes a global competition but also reinforces its standing as a competitive and internationally recognized destination for nature-based sport tourism.

photo by: chatgpt.com

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