Prepare for a dynamic showcase of DJ beats and acrobatic footwork as Breaking, commonly known as breakdancing, debuts at the Paris Olympics on Friday, July 9 at 4 PM. The event will kick off with the B-Girls Pre-Qualifier Battle at the Parc Urbain.
Although Breaking has roots in New York City from the 1970s, this two-day competition will feature dancers from over ten countries, including China, India, Ukraine, Japan, the Netherlands, and South Korea, highlighting its global appeal beyond its American origins.
Breaking, the term officially used in the Olympics, refers to the dance style’s evolution from its early days when dancers performed during the breaks of DJ tracks. The sport, which gained mainstream attention in the 1980s with iconic groups like the Rock Steady Crew and the New York City Breakers, involves intricate footwork and impressive power moves, including spins and freezes.
The longest-running Breaking competition, Battle of the Year, has been celebrated annually since 1990, and the World DanceSport Federation has been IOC-recognized since 1997.
The inclusion of Breaking in the Olympics aligns with the IOC’s commitment to incorporating popular sports that resonate with all age groups. After its debut at the 2018 Summer Youth Olympic Games in Argentina, where it attracted over 1 million viewers, Breaking was officially added to the Olympic program on December 7, 2021. However, it will not be featured in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
