Yes, sport climbing is officially included in the Olympics! It made its debut at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, marking a huge milestone for the sport and its global fanbase. Athletes competed in a unique format called the Sport Climbing Combined Olympics Game, which brought together three distinct disciplines: speed climbing, bouldering, and lead climbing.
In this combined event, climbers had to perform across all three styles, and their final score was calculated by multiplying their rankings. It tested not just raw power or endurance, but also technique, mental agility, and adaptability.
Due to the success and excitement it generated in Tokyo, sport climbing was again included in the Paris 2024 Olympics, with an updated structure:
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Speed climbing became its own event, and
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Bouldering and lead climbing were combined into another separate medal event.
This adjustment allows athletes to focus on their strengths while still celebrating the variety within climbing. As interest continues to grow—especially in countries like India, where young climbers are emerging—sport climbing is carving out a strong, permanent place in the Olympic world.
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