Bali to Host Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series for First Time

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is strengthening its position as a global sports tourism destination as Bali is hosting the 2026 Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series 2026 for the first time at the iconic Broken Beach in Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali, from May 21-23, 2026.

Speaking at a press conference in Denpasar on Wednesday, May 20, Red Bull Cliff Diving Sports Director Orlando Duque explained that the first and second rounds were originally planned to be held at Kroya Waterfall in Sambangan Village, Buleleng Regency.

However, weather conditions and sediment carried by upstream currents reduced the water depth, making the venue unsuitable for competition.

Although several spots were still considered safe for diving, organizers decided to relocate all rounds to Broken Beach to prioritize the safety of athletes, crew members, and rescue divers.

“The safety of the athletes and all crew members is our top priority. Because the water depth changed due to sedimentation, all rounds were eventually moved to Broken Beach,” Duque said, as quoted by Antara.

He added that it was unfortunate to abandon the Kroya Waterfall venue because of its strong potential to host a world-class event. Organizers are still considering the possibility of using the site in future seasons.

Duque also praised Bali as a complete destination for international extreme sports events. “Bali has everything. Everyone knows Bali for its nature, culture, and atmosphere,” he said.

A total of 24 of the world’s best cliff divers, 12 women and 12 men, will compete in the historic event, which further places Bali on the map as a premium sports tourism destination.

Female athletes will dive from heights of 21 meters, while male competitors will jump from 27 meters, reaching water entry speeds of around 85 kilometers per hour.

Duque noted that Bali’s steeper cliff surfaces compared to other venues present an additional challenge, requiring athletes to make special adjustments before competing.

Despite the cancellation of the Buleleng venue, wildcard athlete Aidan Heslop still had the opportunity to test the Kroya Waterfall location. He described the experience as unique because it demanded greater precision, especially during water landings.

Heslop also spoke about his recovery journey before returning to the world series. After 15 years in professional cliff diving, he spent a full year recovering from injury before making his comeback in Bali.

“Every venue has its own characteristics, so we must always be ready to adapt to the conditions on site. Bali feels different, and I think it will be very challenging,” he added.

Meanwhile, women’s wildcard athlete Xantheia Pennisi said athletes are not only chasing top performances but also focusing on maintaining their physical condition throughout the competition. The Brisbane-born diver added that safety remains a crucial factor in every event.

“Athletes want to stay consistent with every dive and avoid injuries,” she said.

After Bali, the global series will continue in several other countries, including Copenhagen, Bosnia, and Oman, which will host the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series for the first time. ***