Ondra set for Prague return. Press conference reveals latest updates

Monday’s press event featured Czech Mountaineering Association president Jan Bloudek, climbing legend Adam Ondra, and one of the emerging faces of the Czech team, Arina Jurčenko. The event took place at the Green Table by Veolia vegetarian restaurant, a fitting venue given that Veolia Group is the main partner of the event. The space itself showcases a modern sustainable approach, including biodynamic lighting, irrigation using treated wastewater, and furniture made from recycled materials.

Organisers once again highlighted this year’s key changes – the move to Štvanice Island and the addition of lead climbing. "Adding lead is a crucial step for us. It takes the event to a higher level and is also an important part of the preparation for the World Championships, which will take place next year in Brno,” said Jan Bloudek.

A major topic was also Adam Ondra’s return to competing on home soil. After ending his competitive bouldering career last year, he will now compete in lead climbing, coming into the event in strong form following his winter preparation on rock. "I need to keep changing stimuli to stay motivated and keep improving,” Ondra explained. "Now the goal is to convert maximum strength into endurance for lead,” he added ahead of the June competition in Prague.

Alongside him, international stars and other Czech talents are expected to compete, including Arina Jurčenko, who represents the new generation of the national team. She competes in both disciplines and sees the home event mainly as a valuable experience. "I’m really looking forward to the atmosphere and to competing at home. I’m not setting specific goals, I just want to focus on my own performance,” said the current Czech bouldering champion.

Organisers are also responding to growing fan interest. In addition to the originally available four-day passes, two-day tickets for individual disciplines were recently introduced and are selling quickly. The highest demand is for seats in the front rows of the central court on Štvanice, where the lead competition will take place. Ticket prices will increase slightly from the beginning of May, so fans are advised not to wait too long before purchasing.

The Prague event will take place from 3 to 7 June 2026 and will offer a combination of top-level sport and a fan experience that, thanks to the new venue and expanded programme, is set to raise the bar once again.