Diego Poncelet Sets Downhill Skateboarding Speed Record With Prada and Red Bull Support
Spanish downhill skateboarder Diego Poncelet reached 151.83 kilometers per hour, or 94.34 miles per hour, on a closed road in Quebec, Canada, on Sept. 22. Prada Linea Rossa worked with him on custom footwear and gloves designed for grip and control, while Red Bull also backed the attempt. The record, which had stood since 2017, was announced on Thursday after he finalized the run five days later.
Poncelet, a 27-year-old Spaniard, is a two-time downhill world champion, having won in 2022 and 2023. His run took place on a closed stretch of Route des Éboulements in Quebec’s Charlevoix region, and he had prepared by using a wind tunnel to hone his posture and streamline.
Prada Linea Rossa, Prada’s performance-focused clothing and lifestyle label, created custom shoes and gloves for him. The footwear used an adhesive rubber mixture and herringbone tread for board contact. Red Bull also supported the attempt. The prior Guinness mark, 146.73 km/h, was set by Peter Connolly in 2017 on the same course.
The feat may raise downhill skateboarding’s profile, drawing new fans and aspiring riders to a niche sport. Prada Linea Rossa’s involvement could strengthen the idea that luxury fashion belongs in high-performance settings, while Red Bull’s backing may reinforce its association with extreme athletics. Athletes in similar disciplines might see more sponsorship opportunities, though the record’s visibility could also prompt broader public discussion about safety, preparation, and the conditions required for such attempts.