German Elite Climbers Launch Fundraising Campaign to Address Financial Struggles

Athletes cite funding cuts and structural delays, warning that financial burdens jeopardize careers in competitive climbing.

Top German climbers, including Alexander Megos and Lucia Dörffel, have called for public donations to support their financially strained teammates.
The German Alpine Club (DAV) faces budget shortfalls, leaving many athletes to cover thousands of euros in competition and training costs themselves.
Funding cuts by Deutsche Sporthilfe and delayed reforms in the DAV have intensified financial pressures on less prominent athletes.
While star climbers are less affected, they are showing solidarity with teammates whose careers are at risk due to the financial challenges.
The issue reflects broader concerns about inadequate sports funding in Germany, with similar complaints emerging from athletes in other disciplines like cycling and track and field.