The Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series will bring its only United States stop of the 2026 season to St. Pete Pier on June 5 and 6, according to an April 17 announcement. The event will feature top cliff divers from around the world competing above Tampa Bay in a two-day competition.
This marks the first time the World Series has held an event in Florida, offering American fans a rare chance to see elite cliff diving live. Organizers say that twenty-four athletes—twelve women and twelve men—will dive from platforms built above the pier, reaching heights up to seventy feet for women and ninety feet for men. Divers are expected to reach speeds of fifty-three miles per hour during their three-second freefall before entering the water.
Spectators can watch from various locations along St. Pete Pier, nearby parks, or boats in the bay as athletes perform complex dives judged on execution, synchronization, and artistic impression. The event is free and open to the public.
James Lichtenstein, who made history at last year’s Boston finale by becoming the first American male diver to win on U.S. soil, said: “Winning in Boston last season was a huge moment—not just for me, but for the sport in the U.S. The energy from the crowd was incredible, and it meant everything to have that moment at home.” He added: “To now come into St. Pete as the only U.S. stop this year, it feels like we’re building something bigger, and I’m excited for fans to experience it again.”
The St. Pete competition is part of a six-event global series spanning three continents in 2026. After opening in Bali (May 20–23), stops include Copenhagen (June 27), Mostar (July 31–August 1), Polignano a Mare (September 25–27), with a finale planned for Muscat (November 12–14). Reigning champions Rhiannan Iffland and Gary Hunt are expected among this year’s headliners.
Fans can watch live coverage or replays of this year’s USA edition beginning at 1:00 PM Eastern Time on Red Bull TV.
