As a result of the ongoing corona pandemic, the International Climbing Association (IFSC) and the Chinese Mountain Sports Association (CMA) have decided to cancel the two planned World Cups. The American Natalia Grossmann is the big beneficiary of this decision.
The IFSC Lead and Speed World Cup in Xiamen from October 15 to 17, 2021 and the IFSC Boulder and Speed World Cup in Wujiang from October 22 to 24, 2021 will not be held. There is no postponement date. The last lead competition will therefore take place in Kranj, Slovenia from September 3rd to 4th. The bouldering season will also end early, the next and last competition will take place from October 1st to 3rd in Seoul, South Korea.
Influence on overall ranking
The decision has a greater influence on the overall result of the respective discipline than one might think at first glance. Because usually there are six World Cup competitions per season in lead climbing and bouldering. Athletes who take part in all competitions can delete their worst competition result and thus improve their overall ranking. Because there are no more competitions, this option no longer exists.
Grossmann is the favorite in the bouldering discipline
The American is a big beneficiary of this decision Natalia Grossman, especially in the bouldering discipline. Only if Janja Garnbret wins in Seoul and Natalia Grossmann does not make it into places two to nine, Garnbret can still win the overall victory in bouldering. Due to the solid performance of the American, it is almost certain that Natalia will be the overall winner in bouldering in 2021. In lead climbing for women, the matter has not yet been clearly decided.
Stefano Ghisolfi with good lead climbing opportunities
It is different with men. The lead discipline is currently held by the Italian Stefano Ghisolfi cited. He has 36 points clear Sean bailey. If Stefano Ghisolfi makes it into the top four in Kranj, he'll be on the safe side with the overall title in lead climbing.
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Credits: Cover Picture Eddie Fowke / IFSC