In a stunning display of human capability and courage, renowned American rock climber Alex Honnold successfully free-climbed the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper in Taiwan. This monumental achievement saw Honnold scale the 508-meter (1,667-foot) structure without the aid of ropes or any protective equipment, completing the ascent in a mere 90 minutes. The event, held on a Sunday in January 2026, drew a massive crowd and was broadcast live, solidifying Honnold's reputation as a pioneer in extreme sports and pushing the boundaries of what is considered possible in urban climbing.
Honnold, already celebrated for his historic ropeless ascent of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, approached Taipei 101's unique design with his characteristic blend of meticulous planning and sheer nerve. The building, known for its distinctive L-shaped outcroppings and "bamboo boxes" — 64 floors forming its challenging middle section — presented a complex architectural puzzle. Honnold navigated these features by utilizing small protrusions as footholds and manually pulling himself up past large ornamental structures, relying solely on his grip strength and balance.
Upon reaching the summit, Honnold was met with a breathtaking vista and an exhilarating sense of accomplishment. Despite strong winds, which he acknowledged added to the challenge, his spirits were high as he waved to the cheering spectators below. He described the view as "incredible" and the day as "beautiful," emphasizing the unique perspective of Taipei from such an elevated and precarious position. The public nature of the climb, broadcast live on Netflix, added an unusual dimension for Honnold, who typically prefers more secluded climbing environments. However, he embraced the support, noting that the crowd's well-wishes transformed the intense experience into a festive occasion.
The daring feat sparked considerable discussion regarding the ethical implications of broadcasting such high-risk endeavors. While Honnold is not the first to ascend Taipei 101 – French climber Alain Robert previously scaled it in 2004 with ropes – he holds the distinction of being the first to conquer it in a free solo style. The climb, originally planned for the preceding day, was postponed by 24 hours due to inclement weather, underscoring the critical role of conditions in such perilous undertakings.
Honnold's successful free solo of Taipei 101 stands as a testament to his exceptional physical prowess and mental discipline. This latest conquest not only adds another extraordinary chapter to his legendary career but also continues to inspire awe and ignite conversations about the limits of human endurance and the allure of extreme challenges.