Paragliding World Cup North Macedonia, Krushevo, 2025: press release

The Paragliding World Cup heads back to North Macedonia for the fourth stop of the 2025 season, set against the legendary skies of Krushevo. From 20 to 27 July, this historic venue will host over 130 of the world’s best pilots for a mid-summer showdown that could prove pivotal in the race to the Superfinal.

Krushevo is no stranger to elite competition. This mountain resort has already staged three World Cups (2012, 2014, and 2022), as well as World and European Championships — building a reputation as one of Europe’s premier paragliding arenas.With launches on both east and west faces and smooth road access, it’s perfectly equipped to handle large international events. The area is famed for its generous climbs (ranging from 3 m/s to booming 7 m/s) and spectacular lines of convergence, offering a playground where pilots can push the limits of speed and strategy.

From takeoff, routes typically fan out toward the plains and valleys, with flights zigzagging over the main ridges, looping triangles toward Prilep, or chasing distance lines all the way to the Greek border. The large, forgiving terrain absorbs wind beautifully and makes for exciting racing with countless tactical options — ideal for concentric circles, corridor tasks, or classic out-and-returns.

The combination of big climbs, reliable summer conditions, and a wide safe flying area make it a favourite not just for spectacular tasks, but for rewriting season standings. In 2025, this stage could once again prove decisive, as pilots chase critical points to secure their spots in the year-end Superfinal.

The athletes: champions, rising stars, and local masters

The lineup reads like a roll call of the sport’s biggest names, bringing together a thrilling mix of experienced champions and rising stars ready to battle for victory.Among the men, World Cup winners Baptiste Lambert, Maxime Pinot, Honorin Hamard, Andrei Gaia, and Joachim Oberhauser — who memorably claimed the World title right here in Macedonia — lead a star-studded field. They’ll be pushed hard by younger talents like Dylan Mansley and Adrien Raisson, hungry to make their mark. Meanwhile, local heroes Darko Stankovski and Martin Jovanovski, with their deep knowledge of Krushevo’s subtle lines and triggers, will be looking to turn that home advantage into something special.

In the women’s race, expect fierce battles between Constance Mettetal, Keiko Hiraki, Alexia Fischer, and Violeta Jimenez — all PWC winners, all chasing precious season points.

With strong climbs, long convergence lines, and wide, forgiving valleys ready to reward bold tactics, Krushevo promises a spectacular week of racing at the highest level.