The future of climbing is being forged right now, but are the right voices at the table? The International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) recently convened its Commissions Week in Torino, Italy, a crucial event where representatives from across the globe gathered to chart the course for the sport. This wasn't just a routine meeting; it was a four-day deep dive into the strategic decisions that will shape climbing for years to come.
From December 2nd to 5th, members of nine IFSC Commissions – representing a broad spectrum of expertise – participated, both in person and online, to dissect the past season, pinpoint areas ripe for improvement, and, most importantly, lay out a roadmap for the future. Think of these annual meetings as the bedrock upon which the technical, operational, and athlete-centric evolution of climbing is built. They are vital for the continued progression of the sport.
A significant moment was the first in-person meeting led by the newly appointed Chair of the Athletes’ Commission, Kyra Condie from the USA. This is where the athlete perspective became really clear. Joined by fellow representatives, Kyra ensured that the voices and lived experiences of elite climbers were front and center in the broader Commission discussions, before further contributing to respective subject area groups. This approach underscores the IFSC's commitment to ensuring that decision-making is deeply rooted in the realities faced by those competing at the highest levels.
Over the course of the week, the Coaches’, Events, Governance, Media and Marketing, Medical and Anti-Doping, Risk and Finance, Routesetters, and Rules Commissions each tackled critical topics. Discussions ranged from groundbreaking routesetting innovations and the smooth operation of competitions to critical matters of safeguarding athletes, strengthening anti-doping frameworks, and crafting effective media strategies to grow the sport's reach. The wide range of topics covered shows how seriously the IFSC is taking the evolution of climbing.
And this is the part most people miss... These meetings marked the first time the new commission members gathered in person since the end of the previous terms at the 2025 General Assembly in Larnaca, Cyprus. Each Commission now boasts representatives nominated by their respective National Federations, enriching the collective expertise available for the new four-year mandate. This broadening of perspectives is intended to foster more inclusive and well-informed decision-making.
Reflecting on the week's events, IFSC President Marco Scolaris emphasized the pivotal role the Commissions play in steering the sport's direction: “Our Commissions are the engine moving our sport forward. Every aspect of the organisation is talked about, debated and considered by the people that are rooted in the heart of climbing. It was the first time for some of the new members to get together in Torino, and - like us within the IFSC and looking at their expressions every night at dinner - they found the meetings very valuable, and I thank them for their important contributions.” Scolaris's comments highlight the importance of collaboration and diverse perspectives in shaping the future of climbing.
As Commissions Week drew to a close, representatives from the IFSC World Cup and Youth World Championships organizing committees participated in a dedicated workshop. They also held meetings with IFSC staff, focusing on sharing best practices and enhancing coordination in preparation for the upcoming competition season. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that events are run efficiently and effectively, providing the best possible experience for athletes and spectators alike. This proactive approach should lead to a better competition season.
But here's where it gets controversial... Are these commissions truly representative of the global climbing community? Are the voices of grassroots climbers, recreational enthusiasts, and those from underrepresented regions being adequately heard? What measures are in place to ensure transparency and accountability in the decision-making processes of these commissions? These are important questions that the climbing community needs to continue to ask and debate. What do you think? Are the right people shaping the future of climbing, and how can we ensure that all voices are heard?
