Strongest Firefighter

The World's Strongest Firefighter Contest will return to the Arnold Sports Festival  in 2026.

This event brings together firefighters from around the world to compete for the title of World’s Strongest Firefighter. On Friday, March 6, athletes compete within their respective divisions for a world title. Division winners then advance to the Arnold Expo Stage on Saturday, March 7, where an overall champion will be crowned.

The competition was first held on the Santa Monica Pier in 2020 and has since become a featured attraction at the Arnold Sports Festival, drawing sold-out crowds each year. The event introduced weight classes in 2023 and expanded further in 2024. For 2026, Masters divisions are being added for both men and women.

2026 EVENTS

Friday, March 6

Divisional Championship

10:00am-6:00pm - Frame Carry, Fire Hydrant Carry, Dumbbell+Log+Deadlift Ladder, Keg Carry to Sled Drag
Arnold Expo Hall C

Saturday, March 7

World’s Strongest Firefighter - Finals

10:00am-11:30am - Truck Pull (weather permitting)
West Goodale Street at North High Stree

1:30pm-4:00pm - Ambulance Tire Deadlift, Axe Front Hold, Power Stairs to Duck Walk, Fire Hydrant Load
Arnold Expo - Main Stage

Divisions:
Lightweight Men: 90 kg (198 lbs) and under
Middleweight Men: 105 kg (231 lbs) and under
Open Men: Over 105kg (231 lbs)
Masters Men: Men 40 years old and above
Lightweight Women: 73 kg (161 lbs) and under
Open Women: Over 73kg (161 lbs)
Masters Women: Women 40 years old and above

The top three finishers from the Lightweight Men, Middleweight Men, Lightweight Women, and Open Women divisions, and the top six finishers from the Open Men division, will advance to the 2026 World’s Strongest Firefighter finals on the Arnold Expo Stage on Saturday, March 7.

Admission is included with Expo Passes.

Register Now