NEOM IFSC Masters Attracts Global Elite in Saudi Arabia

The NEOM IFSC Masters event also saw the International Federation of Sport Climbing host community workshops on the climbing wall - SPA

The NEOM IFSC Masters—the third competition of the NEOM Beach Games—showcased the talents of 93 elite sport climbers from 31 countries. Taking place at NEOM’s Mountain Village in Bajdah, with NEOM’s stunning rock formations as a backdrop, the contest saw climbers Manuel Cornu and Agathe Calliet clinch the top spots in boulder, while Amir Maimuratov and Rajiah Sallsabillah excelled in speed.
At the event, rising stars, including Samuel Watson—the youngest world-ranked climber from the Paris 2024 Olympics—competed against I8 other Olympians who had participated in the French capital’s Games, underscoring NEOM’s appeal to emerging athletes, SPA reported.
The NEOM IFSC Masters event also saw the International Federation of Sport Climbing host community workshops on the climbing wall, furthering NEOM’s commitment to creating opportunities in sport climbing. The initiative connected local enthusiasts with the sport’s global stage, showing them the ropes and highlighting NEOM’s dedication to engaging with the community.
NEOM Sport’s Managing Director Jan Paterson said: “NEOM’s dedication 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 take part in the events, providing local talent with the opportunity to learn new techniques, improve their skills and develop connections with the elite athletes.”
IFSC Treasurer and Executive Board Member Pierre You said: “On behalf of the IFSC, I was very happy to welcome the athletes who participated in the second edition of the NEOM IFSC Masters. It has been an incredible season for sport climbing with the success of the Olympic Games, and 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 Saudi Hiking and Climbing Federation, we are counting on this event to further boost the development of our sport in Saudi Arabia.”
NEOM’s commitment to events such as the NEOM IFSC Masters reflects its vision to inspire and expand sports offerings. By welcoming global athletes, NEOM strengthens its position as a hub for sporting excellence, driving innovation and elevating Saudi Arabia’s presence on the world stage.