Chronicle from Chile: Mundonow lives the adrenaline of the most extreme urban descent with Red Bull Valparaíso Cerro down 2025

Adrenaline Without Limits With Red Bull

Riders from Around the World Take on the Most Dangerous Urban Downhill Circuit

A Chilean and a Brazilian Among the World’s Best

From Atlanta to Chile, specifically Valparaíso, I arrived to witness for the first time the country’s most extreme urban downhill event: Red Bull Valparaíso Cerro Abajo 2025.

The atmosphere in the streets was electric—people spoke passionately about the competition, eagerly awaiting it all year long.

Two days before the event, the streets were already packed, preparing to welcome the best riders in the world.

One of the most touching stories I came across was that of Ana María, a local resident who lives near some of the most spectacular jumps.

Red Bull Valparaíso Cerro Abajo Brings the World Together

Extreme Adrenaline of Red Bull Valparaíso Cerro Abajo 2025 (Photo: Alonso Bañuelas)

With pride, Ana María showed MundoNOW clippings and mementos proving how, for 21 years, she has experienced every edition of the Valparaíso Cerro Abajo.

«We’ve never opposed it because this hill is usually quiet, and this event brings us so much joy. Some neighbors sell drinks and sandwiches,» she said.

«They didn’t use to put up safety barriers, but things have changed now. I love watching the race, though it’s scary when the riders fall,» she added.

But it wasn’t just spectators who were feeling the intensity—the riders themselves were on the edge of their nerves, determined to give their best performance.

The atmosphere lived in Valparaíso is one of happiness. (Photo Alonso Bañuelas)

Overcoming Injury to Secure Fifth Place

? Gonzalo pushed through an injury to finish in fifth place (Photo: Alonso Bañuelas)

One of them was Gonzalo Gajdosech from Mendoza, Argentina. At 23 years old, this was already his fourth time competing in Red Bull’s Cerro Abajo.

He had no idea how well he would do—finishing in an impressive fifth place, despite a shoulder injury.

«I got injured while training for this competition. It’s frustrating because I need surgery, but I never stop training. I adapt my strategy for every route—every step counts,» he said.

He also admitted he was nervous because it was his first time competing with a new bike, adding another layer of uncertainty.

«I’m Here to Experience the Journey»

? Fernando: «This sport isn’t for everyone.» (Photo: Alonso Bañuelas)

Another local competitor, Fernando Riquelme, said he trained harder for this edition of the Valparaíso Cerro Abajo.

«More than chasing a result, I want to enjoy the process. My dad always tells me not to hold back on the brakes—that falls are part of the game. This is a tough sport, it’s not for just anyone,» he said.

Among the competitors was Pedro Burns, son of famous actress Ángela Contreras. With a big smile, accompanied by his girlfriend, he shared that she is his greatest inspiration.

«This is my fifth race, and I’ve improved every year.»

«Learning from Mistakes»

? Hans: «You have to learn from mistakes.» (Photo: Alonso Bañuelas)

«The most important thing is to learn from your mistakes and use that energy to get better,» he said, exchanging a knowing glance with his partner.

Meanwhile, Hans Pulgar Díaz, in his second participation in Red Bull’s Cerro Abajo, emphasized the importance of the Chilean crowd.

«The energy from the crowd pushes you to do your best. I’ve improved my preparation and built a new bike for this challenge,» he said.

For Hans, the key is to stay motivated and understand that there’s always another opportunity to achieve the desired results.

Red Bull Valparaíso Cerro Abajo, A True Tradition

? Marcela and Olivia, a mother and daughter, traveled from Santiago for the competition.

The event also featured Sebastián Vázquez, winner of Red Bull’s first-ever Cerro Abajo in 2003 and the current competition director.

With 11 races under his belt, he shared how the event has evolved: «Now the jumps are bigger, but also safer. In 2015, I had a bad fall and had to retire, but I still love this sport.»

In the crowd, we met Olivia and Marcela, a mother-daughter duo who traveled from Santiago to experience the thrill of the event, inspired by Marcela’s husband. «It’s an impressive event, but I live it with fear,» Marcela admitted.

Her daughter enthusiastically encouraged everyone to visit Valparaíso and witness the experience firsthand.

Route Changes in Valparaíso Cerro Abajo 2025

? PolloSUS enjoying the event in the streets. (Photo: Alonso Bañuelas)

Spanish designer Daniel, who worked on event merchandise, highlighted the challenges posed by the Valparaíso Cerro Abajo route changes. «The new staircases were the biggest challenge for new riders. This event is for the whole family.»

During training, we witnessed several dramatic falls. One rider crashed right in front of us when her bike failed to reach the ramp.

Her first concern after the fall? Asking about her bike, showing the passion and commitment these athletes have.

Even Chilean influencer Pollo Castillo was present, sharing his thoughts on the event: «Experiencing this firsthand is unique. It’s a vibrant event where the entire city comes together.»

And the New Champion Is…

? Red Bull Valparaíso Cerro Abajo (Photo: Alonso Bañuelas)

At last, the race crowned Czech rider Tomáš Slavík as champion with a time of 2 minutes and 18 seconds, reaching speeds over 54 km/h.

With this victory, he joined the ranks of the three most successful riders in the Valparaíso Cerro Abajo competition’s history, matching the records of Chilean Antonio Leiva and Slovakian Filip Polc.

Just behind Slavík, Chilean Felipe Agurto took second place, missing the title by mere milliseconds.

While Brazilian Lucas Borba secured third place.

Next Stop: Red Bull Guanajuato Cerro Abajo in Mexico

? Red Bull Valparaíso Cerro Abajo (Photo: Alonso Bañuelas)

Despite the fierce competition, sportsmanship was evident as riders embraced each other in a display of respect and camaraderie.

Now, the riders will take a well-deserved break before heading to Mexico for the series grand finale on March 29 at Red Bull Guanajuato Cerro Abajo.

For me, attending Red Bull Valparaíso Cerro Abajo 2025 was an unforgettable experience.

From the electric energy in the streets to the passion of the riders, this event is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of extreme sports at its finest.