On June 13, X Games announced that it will be transitioning to a global, team-based format in 2026. This marks a departure from its current model, which includes two domestic events each year focusing on winter and summer sports. The new league will be inspired by Formula One and will feature teams of athletes from various action sport disciplines competing for individual and team points.
The league will continue to showcase both summer and winter action sports. Initially, each league will consist of four global events and four teams, with plans for expansion in the future. ESPN reports that the competition schedules will include signature X Games events as well as collaborations with existing competitions.
X Games aims to provide athletes with more stability by offering them annual income, benefits, and additional commercial opportunities through the team format. Teams have not been selected yet, but they will be formed through an industry-wide draft where athletes are nominated. Those not chosen will still be eligible as alternate athletes.
Professional winter sport athletes like Svea Irving and Nick Goepper have expressed their excitement about the new format. Goepper praised X Games for bringing fresh ideas to the table, while Irving called the announcement “huge” on her Instagram story.