2026 XTERRA World Championship Returns to USA for 30th Anniversary

March 25, 2025

RUIDOSO, NEW MEXICO, USA (March 25, 2025) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/  — The XTERRA World Championship returns to American soil to celebrate its 30th anniversary in Ruidoso, New Mexico, from October 8-11, 2026. Set in the majestic Lincoln National Forest at over 6,900 feet elevation, the iconic event will bring athletes back to XTERRA’s roots with trails winding through alpine forests, steep mountain climbs, and technical descents, offering competitors an authentic frontier experience in the American Southwest.

Ruidoso has committed to hosting the prestigious XTERRA World Championship for three consecutive years (2026-2028), highlighting the region’s unique culture, resilient community spirit, and spectacular landscapes. Village of Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford expressed enthusiasm about welcoming the XTERRA Community, emphasizing the substantial economic and recreational opportunities for the mountain town.

“This is a tremendous honor for our mountain community and a testament to the natural beauty and challenging terrain that makes our area so special,” said Crawford. “We’re ready for the world stage as a premier destination for outdoor adventure sports as we welcome outdoor enthusiasts from around the globe to experience our trails, our hospitality, and the unique spirit of Ruidoso.”

The XTERRA World Championship weekend begins with a 1.5K swim in scenic Grindstone Lake, followed by a 30K mountain bike featuring challenging climbs, technical singletrack, and breathtaking views of Sierra Blanca Peak. Athletes finish with a rugged 10K trail run winding through rocky terrain, ending in the heart of Ruidoso at Wingfield Park.

“Ruidoso is exactly what XTERRA embodies: challenging terrain, beautiful trails, and an authentic outdoor culture,” said XTERRA VP of Operations & Marketing, J-D Cousens. “Returning to the United States and specifically to Ruidoso is about more than just competition. It’s about forging connections, and immersing participants in an experience that goes beyond the racecourse.”

In addition to elite and age group racing, XTERRA’s rapidly growing Youth World Championship will also take center stage. Nico Lebrun, XTERRA’s Global Technical Director, highlighted the strategic significance of bringing the Youth Championship to Ruidoso as a co-headliner event.

“We launched the XTERRA Youth World Championship in 2024, and the momentum continues to build,” said Lebrun. “Ruidoso provides an inspiring environment for the next generation of off-road triathletes, encouraging growth and passion in our sport.”

The XTERRA World Championship will extend beyond competition, offering activities designed to celebrate Ruidoso’s rich cultural heritage and community resilience. Participants and families will enjoy local music, cuisine, sustainability-focused practices, and outdoor recreation, creating an inclusive experience for athletes, families, locals and all visitors.

Festival Event Manager for XTERRA Americas, Samantha Paulson emphasized the full scope of the weekend. “Our goal is to create a festival that encourages exploration, enriches the athlete and spectator experience, and honors the vibrant culture of Ruidoso,” said Paulson. “XTERRA will extend its footprint beyond Wingfield Park, integrating local businesses, art, and heritage into every aspect of the event weekend.”

Steve Andrus, XTERRA Americas Tour Manager, added: “This opportunity is a full-circle moment to bring the XTERRA World Championship back to the USA, marking a 30-year legacy of exploration and adventure.”

With clear mountain air, ideal conditions, and an atmosphere of adventure, the 2026 XTERRA World Championship in Ruidoso promises an extraordinary celebration of 30 years of exploration, challenge, and community.

Link to Full Announcement Article: xterraplanet.com/xterra-world-champs-2026

(photo credit:@xterraplanet)

YouTube Link: 2026 World Champions: A New Chapter Begins

Register for 2025 XTERRA Ruidoso: xterraplanet.com/event/xterra-ruidoso

About XTERRA

XTERRA is a global lifestyle brand that champions the outdoor enthusiast in their pursuit of relentless adventure. From pioneering the sport of cross-triathlon in 1996, XTERRA has grown to become a leading brand in off-road adventure through the XTERRA World Tour, XTERRA Trail Run World Series and the XTERRA World Cup, connecting an eco-aware community of worldwide explorers that seek to protect the places where they play. For more information, visit xterraplanet.com.