The sheer cliffs of Broken Beach, Nusa Penida, Bali, have been transformed into a world-class arena for extreme sports. Indonesia’s debut as host of the 2026 Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series successfully captured international attention through a blend of thrilling action, exotic natural scenery, and a strong touch of local culture.
Held from 20–23 May 2026, the opening round of the 17th Red Bull Cliff Diving season marked a historic moment for Indonesia. For the first time, world-class athletes leapt from cliffs and platforms tens of metres high directly into the open waters of the Indian Ocean, amidst the massive waves characteristic of Nusa Penida.
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Competition Relocated to Nusa Penida Following Safety Assessment
The Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series 2026 is set to take place at Broken Beach in Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali, from 21 to 23 May 2026, marking the first time the international competition has been staged on the Island of the Gods.
The event was originally scheduled to hold its opening rounds at Kroya Waterfall in Sambangan Village, Buleleng Regency. However, organisers decided to relocate the competition after evaluating environmental conditions at the site.
Speaking during a press conference in Denpasar on Wednesday, Red Bull Cliff Diving Sports Director Orlando Duque said changes in water depth caused by weather conditions and sediment carried downstream made the venue unsuitable for competition.
“The safety of the athletes and all crew is the top priority. Due to changes in depth conditions due to sediment, all rounds were moved to Broken Beach,” Duque said, as quoted by ANTARA.
Duque said the decision was difficult because Kroya Waterfall had been viewed as a venue with potential to host world-class competition.
He added that organisers remain open to reassessing the location for future editions of the event.
Although the venue changed, Duque described Bali as a suitable destination for international extreme sports because of its combination of natural landscape, cultural attractions, and atmosphere.
“Bali has it all. Who doesn’t know Bali? The nature, the culture, the atmosphere. It’s all here,” he said.
Athletes Prepare for New Conditions in Bali
A total of 24 athletes will compete in this year’s series, consisting of 12 women and 12 men.
Female competitors will dive from a platform height of 21 metres, while male competitors will jump from 27 metres. Athletes are expected to enter the water at speeds of around 85 kilometres per hour.
According to organisers, the cliff structure in Bali differs from several previous venues and requires additional preparation and adaptation.
Wildcard athlete Aidan Heslop was among those who tested conditions at Kroya Waterfall before the venue change. He said the experience required a higher level of precision, including aiming for specific landing points in the water.
Aidan also reflected on his return to competition following injury recovery.
“Every location has its own characteristics, so we have to be ready to adapt to the situation and conditions on the ground. I think Bali is different and will be very challenging,” he said.
He added that he returned to competition in Bali after spending a year recovering from injury during his 15-year cliff diving career.
Female wildcard athlete Xantheia Pennisi said maintaining consistency and physical condition remains a key objective throughout the competition.
The Australian-Filipino diver said safety considerations remain central to every performance.
“Athletes want to remain consistent in every jump and avoid injury,” she said.
