Sandro Dias Smashes Two World Records with Daring 70m Skyscraper Skate Drop
Brazilian skateboarding legend Sandro Dias has written his name into the record books after completing a breathtaking descent from the side of a skyscraper in Porto Alegre, Red Bull reports. The 50-year-old broke two Guinness World Records™ during the Red Bull Building Drop, conquering a custom-built ramp attached to the 22-storey Centro Administrativo Fernando Ferrari (CAFF).
Record-Breaking Descent
Launching himself from a height of 70 metres, Dias sped down the curved façade of the government building at an astonishing 103.8kph. Guinness officials confirmed he had set new world records for both the tallest drop into a temporary quarter pipe and the fastest speed on one. Each of his four attempts succeeded, though his final descent – never tested in training – proved the ultimate test of control and courage.
Building the Ultimate Ramp
The CAFF, standing at 88.91 metres, was transformed into what fans dubbed the «ultimate skate ramp». Workers laid plywood sheets across its curved outer wall to create a smooth rideable surface. The build took two months in total, with safety measures including MotoGP™ crash pillows at the base and protective equipment for Dias himself, such as a spine guard and specially designed clothing.
Once the event ended, more than 100 tonnes of ramp materials were set to be reused or donated to NGOs, ensuring the project left a lasting benefit for the community.
Years in the Making
Dias revealed the challenge was the culmination of a 13-year dream.
«I knew it was possible, but almost impossible to actually pull off. No matter how far away your dreams may seem, never give up on them,» he said.
His preparation began in January 2025 and included training under weighted vests, stability drills at high speeds and conditioning to withstand forces of nearly four times his body weight.
Global Reaction
The feat drew admiration across the skateboarding world. Tony Hawk hailed it as a leap far beyond current limits, saying Dias had «jumped ahead about five times everyone else». Fellow skater and protégé Ryan Sheckler called him a «skateboarder through-and-through» who continues to inspire.
A Career of Firsts
Known as the «King of the 540», Dias was the first Brazilian to land a 900 and the first to achieve it in competition. His fearless approach has shaped skateboarding culture in Brazil, including through the Sandro Dias Institute, which gives young people from disadvantaged backgrounds access to the sport.
Reflecting on his achievement, Dias insisted it was not about personal fame.
«Brazilian skateboarding should celebrate this huge accomplishment. The visibility we got ends up helping everyone. I hope this inspires more people to take up the sport and create new opportunities.»
At half a century old, Dias continues to defy expectations, proving that experience and determination can push skateboarding into uncharted territory.
Kursiv also reports that Max Verstappen delivered another masterclass as he cruised to victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, extending Red Bull’s resurgence.
