Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series Makes Its Florida Debut in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg is no stranger to hosting world-class events, but this June, the Sunshine City will welcome one of the most breathtaking sporting spectacles on the planet.
For the first time ever, the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series is coming to Florida, and St. Pete has been selected as the host city for the competition's only U.S. stop of the 2026 season. On June 5 and 6, elite cliff divers from around the globe will launch themselves from towering platforms above Tampa Bay at the iconic St. Pete Pier, performing gravity-defying flips, twists, and acrobatics before entering the water at speeds exceeding 50 miles per hour.
A Global Event Comes to Tampa Bay
Since its inception in 2009, the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series has traveled to some of the world's most spectacular locations, from historic bridges in Europe to dramatic coastal cliffs and urban waterfronts. In 2026, St. Petersburg joins that prestigious list as one of several international tour stops, marking a major milestone for both the city and the sport.
The event will take place at the North Yacht Basin of the St. Pete Pier, where temporary diving platforms will rise 21 meters (69 feet) for women and 27 meters (89 feet) for men above the waters of Tampa Bay. Against the backdrop of the downtown skyline and the sparkling waterfront, spectators can expect a visual experience unlike anything previously seen in St. Petersburg.
What Spectators Can Expect
The competition will feature 24 of the world's top athletes—12 women and 12 men—competing in a series of dives judged on execution, difficulty, and artistry. Admission is free and open to the public, making it one of the most accessible major sporting events to visit this year. Fans will be able to watch from multiple locations along the pier and surrounding waterfront areas, while others may enjoy the action from boats anchored in Tampa Bay.
For those unfamiliar with cliff diving, the sport combines Olympic-level diving technique with extreme heights that leave no room for error. Athletes have just a few seconds to complete multiple rotations and twists before entering the water with pinpoint precision.
A Win for St. Petersburg
Landing a globally recognized event like Red Bull Cliff Diving further cements St. Petersburg's reputation as one of Florida's premier waterfront destinations. The city has become known for its vibrant downtown, award-winning beaches, thriving arts scene, and signature events that draw visitors from around the world.
With thousands expected to attend, local restaurants, hotels, and businesses stand to benefit from the influx of visitors while showcasing everything that makes St. Pete unique. The event also offers another opportunity for the city to highlight the transformative success of the St. Pete Pier as a gathering place and international attraction.
Don't Miss History in the Making
As the world's best cliff divers prepare to write the first chapter of Red Bull Cliff Diving history in Florida, St. Petersburg residents and visitors alike will have a front-row seat to one of the most exhilarating sporting events on Earth.
Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a waterfront lover, or simply looking for an unforgettable weekend activity, June 5–6 promises to deliver a spectacular show over the waters of Tampa Bay.
St. Pete continues to prove that world-class events belong on Florida's Gulf Coast—and this summer, the world will be watching.
