A New Era in Action Sports: X Games Launches XGL with Sheckler, Huston & Williams at the Helm
As X Games Salt Lake City celebrated 30 years of pushing action sports to the limit, a new chapter begins with the groundbreaking launch of X Games League (XGL). Announced at this year’s milestone event, the XGL ushers in a team-based, seasonal competition format, set to redefine how fans, athletes, and partners engage with skateboarding, BMX, snowboarding, and skiing.
The league’s official rollout also introduced the first-ever “Founder Athletes”—Ryan Sheckler, Nyjah Huston, and Ryan Williams—three iconic figures who have each shaped their sport and inspired millions worldwide.
From Iconic Moments to League Legacy
Starting Summer 2026, XGL will debut the Summer X Games League (SXGL), spotlighting Skateboarding and BMX. The Winter X Games League (WXGL) will follow in early 2027, with Snowboarding and Skiing completing the annual action cycle.
This format introduces more than just competitions. XGL builds season-long storylines, rivalries, and team dynamics, offering fans richer narratives and giving athletes greater earning potential, stability, and influence in shaping their careers. Sponsors and media partners gain broader platforms to spotlight talent, while the culture and essence of action sports remain front and center.
Founder Athletes Leading the Charge
Nyjah Huston, widely considered the greatest street skateboarder of all time, sees this as a pivotal moment for athlete recognition.
“I’m stoked to compete in my 20th year of X Games as a founder athlete of X Games League. The new format gives sponsors and media more opportunities to tell the awesome stories of our athletes that often get overlooked compared to mainstream sports.”
said Huston
Ryan Sheckler, whose rise helped bring action sports into the mainstream, emphasized the importance of athlete involvement:
“Helping shape something built with the athletes—where we have real input—makes this incredibly personal. I’m proud to be part of it from day one.”
Ryan Williams, a global BMX sensation known for his boundary-breaking tricks and viral stunts, is excited to bring fans closer to the sport:
“X Games League is attempting to innovate just like we do with action sports. I’m excited to introduce the aspect of team into an already tight-knit community.”
The Road to Summer 2026
As part of their roles, these founder athletes will help design league formats, guide athlete experience, and champion a fan-first culture. Over the coming months, more announcements will follow—new founder athletes, team names, athlete drafts, season schedules, and media partnerships—as momentum builds for this bold evolution in sports entertainment.
Stay updated with all things XGL by following @xgames and visiting xgames.com.
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