Red Bull Valparaíso Cerro Abajo: World's Best FPV Drone Shot?

Cut Media is excited to showcase the first ever single-take FPV drone full run at Red Bull Valparaiso Cerro Abajo. Following urban downhill legend, Tomas Slavík and filmed in one continuous shot, the video pushes technological boundaries and encapsulates the speed and raw intensity of the Valparaíso downhill route, notorious for its daring man-made obstacles and nail-bitingly narrow staircases. Tasked with making the impossible possible, Red Bull Media House set Cut Media the challenge of capturing the energy and high-speed action at Red Bull Valparaíso, one of the longest-running urban downhill races in the world. The decision to use FPV drones allowed for complete freedom of movement in every direction, something not possible with conventional stabilised drones. FPV drones capture the speed and intensity of sports action like nothing else. Flown using video goggles, the viewer is offered a new dynamic perspective and a truly immersive viewing experience. While many have filmed at Valparaíso before, none have succeeded in shooting a single-take FPV full run from start line to finish – a result of creative ambition and pushing technology to its limits. Collaborating with the Dutch Drone Gods, Ralph (Shaggy) Hogenbirk and Thoma de Koster – innovative creators of new drone technology – there were numerous obstacles to overcome, not least signal challenges. This was tackled through the use of multiple highly directional antennas. In addition, a second drone with a signal booster was utilised to pick up the video signal from the FPV and relay it back to the pilot's goggles. The team then faced the added pressure of switching between signals, in the hope that at least one of them was working at all times. The hazardous 2km route presents a variety of other challenges, including sharp corners, steep drops and hundreds of stairs, including the famous Boccaccio staircase, measuring 240 metres in length. From navigating tight buildings to dodging overhead cables, the project is a stunning feat of technology and meticulous logistical planning.