RIYADH -UNS/SPA :The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is set to make history by hosting the 20th edition of the Men’s World Championship and the 11th edition of the Women’s World Championship in Fire and Rescue Sport, to be held from October 26 to November 1, 2025, in Riyadh. This milestone marks the first time the prestigious global event will be staged in the Arab world, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s expanding role on the international stage as a hub for specialized sports and professional excellence.
Jointly organized by the General Directorate of Civil Defense and the International Sport Federation of Firefighters and Rescuers (ISFFR), the event will welcome elite athletes and professional responders from 21 countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America. Participants will compete in a rigorous, six-day program designed to showcase physical prowess, technical precision, and real-world operational readiness.
A Global Platform Honoring Courage and Competence
Since its inaugural edition in 2002 in Moscow, Russia, the World Championship in Fire and Rescue Sport has grown into a globally recognized sporting event that uniquely combines athletic excellence with critical emergency response skills. Governed by the ISFFR—established in 2001—the championship promotes international cooperation, professional development, and a shared commitment to life-saving service.
Key milestones in the championship’s development include:
2004: First participation of non-Eastern European teams in Székesfehérvár, Hungary.
2006: Introduction of the Women’s Championship category.
Ongoing enhancements in technical infrastructure, including electronic scoring systems, and the implementation of WADA-compliant anti-doping protocols to ensure fair play and athlete integrity.
Four Events, One Mission: Excellence Under Pressure
The 2025 competition will feature four core disciplines that simulate high-stakes firefighting operations:
Hook Ladder Climb – A test of speed, agility, and technical mastery.
100-Meter Obstacle Course – Designed to replicate real-world rescue challenges.
4 x 100-Meter Firefighter Relay – A team-based event focusing on coordination and stamina.
Firefighting Combat Deployment – A full-scale simulation involving hoses, pumps, and tactical procedures under timed conditions.
These events challenge athletes not only in physical fitness but also in operational accuracy, reflecting the dual nature of fire and rescue work: strength and strategy, speed and safety.
A Landmark Moment for the Kingdom and the Region
Hosting this championship represents a significant achievement for the Kingdom, aligning with the broader objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasizes:
Enhancing national capabilities in emergency response and civil protection,
Fostering international collaboration in high-specialization fields,
And elevating the Kingdom’s global profile through world-class events.
By bringing the championship to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia is reinforcing its commitment to safety, preparedness, and professionalism in civil defense, while also promoting a message of global unity, cooperation, and heroic service.
A Celebration of Humanity, Heroism, and Sport:
Beyond competition, the World Championship in Fire and Rescue Sport carries a profound humanitarian message: honoring the bravery, dedication, and sacrifice of firefighters and rescuers worldwide. These professionals put their lives at risk daily to protect communities—transforming their mission into an internationally celebrated sport is both a tribute and a testament to their courage.
With Riyadh 2025, the ISFFR and its partners aim to usher in a new era of global engagement, strengthening ties between Arab nations and the international fire and rescue community. The championship not only provides a platform for athletic excellence but also for cultural exchange, knowledge sharing, and mutual respect among nations.
As anticipation builds for Riyadh 2025, all eyes will turn to the Kingdom as it prepares to welcome the world’s finest firefighter-athletes. With top-tier organization, cutting-edge facilities, and a spirit of hospitality, Saudi Arabia is poised to deliver a truly unforgettable edition of this landmark global championship
