Jump to content Page index
Stories from Slovenia

Climbing Spectacle on the Slovenian Coast: IFSC World Cup Returns to Koper

Climbing Spectacle on the Slovenian Coast: IFSC World Cup Returns to Koper

The world’s climbing elite are set to gather in Koper for the IFSC World Cup in Difficulty. Taking place on 5 and 6 September, the competition will be accompanied by a vibrant programme that promises to fill Slovenia’s coast with energy and excitement.

On 5 and 6 September, Koper will once again welcome the world’s climbing elite for the IFSC World Cup – the sixth and final stage of the season. Organized by the Mountaineering Association of Slovenia, which has hosted the event for 29 consecutive years, the competition takes place for the fourth time in a row on the outdoor wall of the Plus Climbing Koper Centre. Beyond the climbing spectacle, visitors can look forward to a lively accompanying program that will bring crowds of fans to Slovenia’s coast.

According to technical director Tomo Česen, 138 climbers from 35 countries are registered – 66 women and 72 men. Among them are the sport’s biggest stars, including both reigning Olympic champions and last year’s Koper winners, Janja Garnbret and Toby Roberts. Also confirmed are last year’s bronze medalists Jakob Schubert and Jessica Pilz from Austria, Tokyo Olympic champion Alberto Ginés López from Spain, current overall leader Sorato Anraku from Japan, Erin McNeice from the UK, as well as sport climbing legends Adam Ondra (Czech Republic) and Jain Kim (Korea).

Slovenia will be represented by a strong national team. Alongside Garnbret, the women’s line-up includes Rosa Rekar, Mia Krampl, Lučka Rakovec, Lana Gorič, Sara Čopar, Lucija Tarkuš, Lana Skušek and Zala Mlakar-Starič. The men’s squad features Luka Potočar, Lovro Črep, Milan Preskar, Gorazd Jurekovič and Samo Golob.

The spotlight, however, will be on Janja Garnbret. The two-time Olympic champion has taken a break from regular competition this season, yet she never considered missing Koper: “This year has been different, but I’ve enjoyed every part of it. After our 24-hour climbing marathon for Botrstvo v športu (Sponsorship in Sports), I felt both drained and full of energy at the same time – a perfect introduction to Koper. My goal is simple: to climb well, pursue perfection and enjoy the moment. Competing in front of a home crowd is always special. The fans here create an incredible atmosphere – it has become the standard in Koper. If I were to choose just one competition to enter, it would be this one.”

Skip carousel

Organizational manager Matej Planko promises two unforgettable days: a mini-Olympics for local schools on Friday, a vibrant fair with local providers, and for the first time, an official After Party with DJ Xenia. For those seeking extra comfort, VIP tickets and a new Business Club experience will be available, featuring culinary creations by Jezeršek Catering. “The forecast is excellent, so we hope the stands will be full, giving our athletes the loudest possible support,” Planko adds. Part of the ticket proceeds will go to the “Botrstvo v športu” initiative led by Janja Garnbret.

Saturday’s finals will be broadcast live on TV Slovenia 2.

The Slovenian Tourist Board, as a strong supporter of responsible tourism development, highlights the importance of hosting world-class sporting events. Not only do they elevate Slovenia’s reputation as a premier destination for active holidays and sports preparation, but they also enhance the international recognition of the I Feel Slovenia brand.

Listen to an exclusive episode of Feel Slovenia the Podcast with host Dr. Noah Charney, where Garnbret opens up about her roots in Slovenia, her favourite places to climb and relax, her mindset during competitions and the lessons climbing has taught her about life. The episode offers a rare, personal glimpse into the life of a world-class athlete beyond the medals and headlines.

 

 

Contacts

Global public relations and Marketing
e-mail address: press(at)slovenia.info

Sign up for the Trade News

Be up to date about what’s happening in Slovenian tourism. By subscribing to our newsletter you will receive the latest trade news in the field of tourism and other current information on a monthly basis.

Share with friends

This content is not available in Russian language.

Please visit the homepage or select another language.