The Long Game Red Bull X-Alps
Adventure and inspiration,  Safety

The Long Game: ‘Look in their eyes and you see it’

The big question of “is it too dangerous?” became the theme of this year's Red Bull X-Alps, Gavin argues we shouldn't change the event

21 July, 2025, by Gavin McClurg / Main Image: Lukas Pilz / Red Bull Content Pool

As a four-time competitor and two-time live commentator of the Red Bull X-Alps I have an intimate understanding of what is known as the toughest adventure race on Earth, a claim that’s hard to dispute. 

The 2025 edition had meaty headlines: First time a non-Swiss has won. Chrigel finally unseated (barely!) after eight decisive wins. 2024 triple crown winner (Superfinal, Europeans and Worlds) Maxime Pinot withdraws due to a fear of injury on day two. Aaron Durogati finally breaks his Red Bull X-Alps curse with a bold and stylish final flight. A rookie (Lars Meerstetter, a Chrigel protégé) squeaks into second by less than 20 seconds ahead of Simon Oberauner. Longest and most difficult course yet, with three via-ferratas. For the...

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