Climbing's European Finale: A Tale of Italian Triumph and International Talent
The stage was set in Toulouse-Tournefeuille, France, for the grand finale of the Youth European Cup 2025, an event that would showcase the future of climbing.
Italy's climbing team left an indelible mark on the competition, dominating the Lead season and claiming an impressive three out of four gold medals. It was a breakthrough moment for Andrea Ludovico Chelleris and Matilda Liù Moar, who secured their first career victories, while Gianluca Vighetti continued his winning streak, adding another gold to his collection after his triumph earlier in the year at the Bologna Youth European Cup.
But here's where it gets controversial... Rafael Kazbekova, a Ukrainian climber, stood out as the only non-Italian to reach the pinnacle, dominating the women's U17 final and securing her fourth medal of the season, a testament to her exceptional talent.
Let's take a closer look at the podium finishers:
Women's U17 Lead:
1. Rafael KAZBEKOVA (UKR) - A true champion, Rafael's performance was nothing short of inspiring.
2. Swann LAMBLIN-BURGUET (FRA) - A strong showing from the French climber.
3. Milena CASETTA (SRB) - Serbia's Milena made her mark on the competition.
Men's U17 Lead:
1. Andrea Ludovico CHELLERIS (ITA) - Italy's rising star claimed the top spot.
2. Hypolite VILANOVA (FRA) - A close second, Hypolite kept the competition tight.
3. Yanik CHASSAIN (SUI) - Switzerland's Yanik secured the bronze.
Women's U19 Lead:
1. Matilda Liù MOAR (ITA) - Matilda's first career victory is a moment to remember.
2. Lana GORIC (SLO) - Slovenia's Lana put up a tough fight.
3. Julia BENACH ZUBERO (ESP) - Spain's Julia showed her skills on the wall.
Men's U19 Lead:
1. Gianluca VIGHETTI (ITA) - Gianluca's double gold performance is a testament to his talent.
2. Akyan ETCHAR (FRA) - France's Akyan gave a strong performance.
3. Giovanni BAGNOLI (ITA) - Another Italian, Giovanni, rounded out the podium.
The excitement doesn't end here! The IFSC European events calendar is set to be unveiled in the coming weeks, and you won't want to miss a single climb. All semi-finals and finals will be live-streamed on the IFSC Europe YouTube channel, ensuring you don't miss a moment of the action. Stay tuned for more updates on the IFSC website and across the Federation's digital channels, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and X, as well as exclusive platforms for the Chinese audience like Bilibili, Douyin, Weibo, and Xiaohongshu.
And this is the part most people miss... climbing is a sport that transcends borders and brings together athletes from diverse backgrounds. It's a testament to the power of sport to unite and inspire. So, as we celebrate the achievements of these young climbers, let's also remember the values of sportsmanship and the beauty of international competition.
What are your thoughts on the Italian team's dominance? Do you think Rafael Kazbekova's performance will spark a shift in the climbing landscape? Share your insights and predictions in the comments below! We'd love to hear your take on this exciting chapter in climbing history.
