The IFSC European Cup circuit continued with a Lead stop in Östermundigen, Switzerland, bringing together a strong field of 96 athletes from 23 nations, including Australia and South Africa.

As the second Lead European Cup of the season, the competition saw some familiar faces return on the podium, as well as standout performances from rising talents and home favourites.

FAMILIAR FACES ON THE WOMEN’S PODIUM

Spain’s Iziar Martínez Almendros continued her impressive season across both youth and open competitions, securing the top spot in the women’s Lead final 36+ and taking her first-ever European gold after two bronzes in 2023 and 2024.

France’s Julia Chanourdie, who already placed third at the previous European Cup in Campitello di Fassa, Italy, returned with another strong performance, taking silver with 32+. Zala Mlakar Staric of Slovenia rounded out the women’s podium in third place, winning bronze with 31+.

For the women’s Lead complete results click here.

TIGHT MEN’S FINAL CLOSES WITH MONCHOIS ON TOP

In the men’s final, Nao Monchois of France pocketed the gold medal with a score of 34+, placing just ahead of Swiss climber Nino Grünenfelder, who had to settle for silver placing just one move behind Monchois at 33+. Another French athlete, Younès Aubert Masmoudi, took bronze, also climbing just one hold less than the athlete ahead o him – 32+.

For the men’s Lead complete results click here.

NEXT UP

The next European Cup is scheduled to take place in St. Pölten, Austria, on 17 August, featuring a Speed competition and being held alongside a Youth European Cup, also in Speed.

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