The province of Jaén is set to become the global epicenter of paragliding as it hosts, for the first time in Spain and second in Europe, the Paragliding World Cup Superfinal. This prestigious event, considered the most important individual competition in the sector, will gather 130 pilots from nearly 40 countries in the Siete Pilillas area, solidifying Pegalajar's reputation as a key destination for air sports.
The official presentation took place at the Provincial Palace of the Jaén Provincial Council, with the presence of the main organizing institutions. The president of the Provincial Council, Paco Reyes, along with the mayor of Pegalajar, Manuel Carrascosa, the president of the National Paragliding Technical Commission of the Royal Spanish Aeronautical Federation, Antonio Lope, and the president of the Pegalajar Flight Center Club, Antonio Romero, all highlighted the historical significance of this competition for the region.
The Superfinal is a technically and physically demanding event, requiring participants to undertake flights that, depending on daily aerological conditions, can cover distances exceeding 150 kilometers, using only thermal currents and winds, without any auxiliary motor. The complexity of the routes can lead pilots to land in distant locations such as the beaches of Granada or the provinces of Córdoba and Albacete, illustrating the magnitude of the journeys that will take place over the skies of Jaén during the eleven-day competition.
“"That this Superfinal has chosen Jaén is not a matter of chance or a one-off opportunity, but the result of decades of continuous work and a firm commitment to air sports as a differentiating element of the territory."
The selection of Jaén as the host is not accidental but the result of a consolidated trajectory in air sports. The province boasts a history that includes five Spanish championships, five national leagues, one World Cup, and one European Paragliding Championship, in addition to numerous high-level events in both Pegalajar and Segura de la Sierra. The exceptional atmospheric conditions, specialized infrastructure, and the experience of the Pegalajar Flight Center Club have been crucial for this international recognition.
As a prelude to the main event, the Niviuk Open, another international-level competition, will be held from May 5 to 9, serving as a warm-up for the pilots. In addition to the sporting aspect, the event will offer a program of parallel activities, including a hot air balloon ride, a display by the Air Force parachute patrol, the presence of the Civil Guard rescue helicopter, flamenco workshops, and high-level gastronomic events featuring local Michelin-starred chefs, making the event a comprehensive showcase of the best that the Sierra Mágina region has to offer.
President Reyes also emphasized the significant economic and promotional return that this event will generate for the province. Participants, their companions, and tourists attending the competition will stay and spend in the area, boosting the local economy. Furthermore, the international media impact will project the image of Jaén's "inland paradise" to a global audience, consolidating its tourist appeal.
