In a daring and astounding infrastructural feat, Red Bull is constructing the world’s tallest skateboard ramp. Positioned at the side of a government building in Brazil, the 85-meter project is estimated to be 20 stories high. The company has not yet shared any specifics on the scope of their project but it seems to be an attempt to drop the side of an entire building without falling. Test attempts appear quite successful though the actual building drop are to be done in the course of the week. According to report insights, the building used for the project is the Administrative Center Fernando Ferrari (CAFF). It is located in Praia de Belas neighborhood of Porto Alegre in Brazil. Moreover, it acts as a necessary part of the city’s governance as it houses various state departments and public administration bodies. Construction began in 1976 and the building opened in 1987. The project is believed to be a marketing stunt as Red Bull continues to expand as it breaks ground on a $1.5B beverage plant in Concord, North Carolina.
Project Factsheet
Significance:
- Becomes the new world record holder for the tallest skateboard ramp standing at 85 meters (20 stories).
- Overtakes the current Guinness World Record title held by Bob Burnquist’s San Diego ramp.
- Brings global attention to the skate culture of Brazil and Red Bull’s extreme sports reputation.
Infrastructure:
- Constructed on the façade of the Administrative Center Fernando Ferrari (CAFF) building.
- 85 meters high, as part of the building’s 20th-story structure.
- In Praia de Belas district of Porto Alegre, capital city of major government offices.
Developer:
- Designed and executed by Red Bull in its program for extreme sports.
- Host building is CAFF building, constructed in 1976 and opened in 1987.
- Sandro Dias, professional skater, accredited with first test runs on the ramp.
Funding:
- Privately funded by Red Bull as a promotion and branding activity.
- Built specifically to attract international media and sporting sponsorships.
- No public funding, although government infrastructure used.
Challenges:
- Safety concerns due to the gigantic size and construction-side aspect of the ramp.
- Uncertainty about official Guinness World Records status before opening for business in full.
- Public scrutiny as the ramp is located on an active government building.
The Significance of the World’s Largest Skateboard Ramp in Brazil
The completion of the world’s largest skateboard ramp is expected to have a monumental impact in updating world records. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the largest permanent skateboard ramp is at the farm home of professional skateboarder Bob Burnquist. Constructed in 2006 in San Diego area, the ramp runs 360 feet long and stretches 75 feet high. Moreover, it features a 180-foot launch section, 70-foot gap, 27-foot slope section and a 30-foot quarterpipe. Based on the structural dynamics, the skateboard ramp in Brazil far surpasses the current largest permanent skateboard ramp. Though not officially launched, the ramp has received enormous attention and speculations on its unveiling. It is not exactly clear who will attempt the enormous drop, though journalist Léo Saballa Jr. credits professional Brazilian skateboarder Sandro Dias for his bravery on test runs done on the wall.
