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Alex Honnold Makes Historic free Solo Ascent of Taipei 101
On January 25, 2026, Alex Honnold achieved a groundbreaking feat by becoming the first person to free solo climb Taipei 101, Taiwan’s tallest building. The climb, broadcast live on Netflix, captivated audiences worldwide as Honnold ascended the 1,667-foot (508-meter) skyscraper without the use of ropes, a harness, or any safety net. Netflix delayed the initial broadcast due to inclement weather, but the event ultimately proceeded under clear skies.
The Ascent and Honnold’s Preparation
Honnold completed the climb in approximately one and a half hours, reaching the top before safely rappelling down to reunite with his wife, Sanni McCandless Honnold. He was equipped with custom-made climbing shoes and a red T-shirt. Throughout the ascent, Honnold paused to wave to the crowds gathered below, acknowledging the hundreds of spectators who came to witness the event. Taipei 101 chairwoman Janet Chia expressed gratitude for the international interest, noting that fans traveled from Singapore, Hong Kong, and other regions to observe the climb.
Honnold has long expressed a desire to climb Taipei 101, having initially been denied permission. He didn’t disclose the reasons for the initial rejection,but was thrilled the project came to fruition after more than a decade of planning.He stated after the climb, “time is finite,” and encouraged others to “use it in the best way,” adding, “If you work really hard… you can do hard things.”
Ancient Context: Previous Attempts and Free Soloing
While Honnold is the first to free solo Taipei 101, he isn’t the first to reach the building’s summit. In 2004, Alain Robert, known as “the French Spiderman,” scaled the tower, but utilized safety ropes due to rainy conditions. Alain robert has become known for climbing many skyscrapers around the world, often with safety equipment.
What is Free Soloing?
Free soloing is a form of rock climbing in which the climber ascends without any ropes, harnesses, or other protective equipment. It is indeed considered one of the most perilous and demanding disciplines in climbing, requiring immense physical and mental strength, as well as meticulous planning and preparation. A single mistake can be fatal.
Honnold’s legacy and previous Achievements
Alex honnold is widely recognized as one of the greatest climbers of all time. He gained international fame in 2017 for his historic free solo ascent of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a climb considered by many to be the pinnacle of difficulty in the climbing world. National Geographic documented this climb in the acclaimed film “Free Solo,” which won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
Public Reaction and Recognition
The event drew a wide range of reactions from onlookers. Some described it as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience,” while others found it “terrifying” to watch. Taiwan’s president Lai Ching-te congratulated Honnold on his achievement via Facebook,
