Breaking

Breaking has been added to the Olympic program for the first time, and the sport will make its Olympic debut at Paris 2024.

Breaking is a style of dance which began in the United States of America in the 1970s. It took form in lively block parties in the Bronx, emerging from hip hop culture, and is characterised by acrobatic movements, stylised footwork and the key role played by the DJ and the master of ceremonies (MC) during battles.

International competitions were first held all over the world in the 1990s, popularising the dance form both among hip hop communities and the general public.

Breaking appeared at the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires in 2018 and has been added to the Paris 2024 program, where one event will be held for men and one event for women.

At Paris 2024 the 16 B-Boys and 16 B-Girls will go face-to-face in solo battles. Athletes will use a combination of power moves as they adapt their moves and improvise to the beat of the DJ’s tracks in a bid to secure the judges’ votes.