American rock climber Alex Honnold has embarked on a breathtaking and perilous ascent of the Taipei 101 skyscraper, undertaking the climb entirely without the use of ropes or any other safety equipment. The daring feat, which began on Sunday 25 January 2026, is being broadcast live to a global audience via the streaming service Netflix, capturing every moment of this high-stakes endeavour.
Crowd Cheers as Honnold Scales Tower with Bare Hands
As Honnold initiated his climb, loud cheers erupted from a gathered crowd of onlookers who had assembled to witness the historic event. The climber utilised the horizontal metal beams of the towering structure to pull himself upwards using only his bare hands, demonstrating incredible strength and precision. At one point during the ascent, Honnold paused and turned to face the spectators, his red short-sleeve shirt vividly contrasting against the grey facade of the skyscraper, eliciting another round of enthusiastic applause from the audience below.
Weather Delay and Broadcast Details
The climb, originally scheduled to take place on the previous day, was postponed for a full 24 hours due to adverse weather conditions, specifically rain, which would have made the surface dangerously slippery. This delay only heightened the anticipation surrounding the event. Netflix's live coverage ensures that viewers worldwide can follow Honnold's progress in real-time as he attempts to conquer one of the world's most famous skyscrapers through free solo climbing, a discipline where any mistake could be fatal.
Taipei 101, located in the capital city of Taiwan, stands as an iconic landmark and was once the tallest building in the world. Honnold's attempt to scale it without ropes represents a significant and audacious challenge in the climbing community, drawing attention not only for its physical demands but also for the mental fortitude required. The Associated Press reported the commencement of the climb, noting the absence of safety gear and the live broadcast arrangement, which brings this extreme sport into the homes of millions.
