Riyadh gears up for global fire, rescue contest

Firefighting and rescue sports simulate real-life firefighting operations in a competitive framework that tests athletes’ speed, endurance and teamwork. (Supplied/File photo)
Short Url

RIYADH: ºÚÁÏÉçÇø, represented by the General Directorate of Civil Defense, will host the World Fire and Rescue Championship in Riyadh from Oct. 26 to Nov. 1.

The event, organized in partnership with the International Sport Federation of Firefighters and Rescuers, will feature participants from 22 countries.

Firefighting and rescue sports simulate real-life firefighting operations in a competitive framework that tests athletes’ speed, endurance and teamwork, according to the Saudi Press Agency report.

The championship includes four main competitions: hook ladder climbing; the 100-meter hurdles race; the 400-meter relay race; and the water pump and hose firefighting race.

ºÚÁÏÉçÇø joined the federation in 2022 to help develop fire and rescue sports locally and globally, enhance international cooperation, and build human capabilities.

This is achieved through sharing knowledge, expertise and skills, and introducing new rescue and firefighting technologies, the SPA reported.

Aleksandr Chupriyan, president of the federation, praised the Kingdom’s efforts, expressing confidence that ºÚÁÏÉçÇø will deliver an outstanding championship.

He said this year’s event will feature elite civil defense and rescue teams from around the world competing in a humanitarian profession dedicated to safeguarding human life.