The MoonPay X Games League Announces Sale of New York Teams to UNA Sports Group
The MoonPay X Games League (XGL) has taken a major step in reshaping the future of action sports, announcing the sale of both its New York Summer and Winter teams to UNA Sports Group in a landmark eight-figure deal. The transaction marks a defining moment for the league, establishing a permanent and strategic presence in one of the world’s most influential sports and cultural markets.
This move positions UNA Sports Group as the first ownership entity to control two XGL teams, reinforcing its ambition to invest in premium sports properties that sit at the intersection of sport, media, and culture. Led by CEO and Managing Partner Del Wright, President David Rader, and Founder Andrew Thau, the group brings a wealth of experience in sports operations and global investment strategy.
Andrew Thau, formerly Chief Operating Officer of United Talent Agency, will take on the role of Governor for the New York X Games franchise. Together, the leadership team will oversee both the Summer and Winter squads under a unified vision, building a long-term foundation for success in the rapidly evolving league.
“This is the starting line. We are launching teams and establishing a permanent presence in major markets. This deal puts X Games in New York across both Summer and Winter, and UNA is the right partner to build it for the long term.”
said X Games CEO Jeremy Bloom
A New Era for Action Sports
The launch of the X Games League signals a structural transformation in action sports, shifting from event-based competition to a city-based team model. This evolution is designed to create sustained value for athletes, investors, and fans, while deepening engagement through regional loyalty and consistent competition.
New York has been identified as a cornerstone market in this strategy, with plans already underway to host both Summer and Winter X Games events in the state. Beyond competitions, fans can expect a steady pipeline of athlete appearances, grassroots initiatives, and community-driven experiences.
UNA Sports Group echoed this vision in a joint statement, highlighting the league’s potential for long-term growth:
“We’re excited to partner with X Games at a pivotal moment. The team-based model unlocks new opportunities for fan engagement and scalable value creation on a global stage.”
Star Power Defines X Games Club New York
The newly formed X Games Club New York enters the league with a powerhouse roster led by skateboarding icon Nyjah Huston, widely regarded as one of the most decorated athletes in the sport. He is joined by rising Australian star Chloe Covell, who was selected as the first overall pick in the inaugural XGL Summer Draft.
The team also features elite BMX talent, including multi-time world champion and Olympic medalist Hannah Roberts, alongside Olympic gold medalist Logan Martin. This blend of established champions and emerging stars reflects the global nature of the league and its commitment to top-tier competition.
General Manager Steve Rodriguez, a New York-based entrepreneur and lifelong skateboarder, will guide the club’s operations.
“It’s an honor to help lead this next chapter. We’re focused on unlocking opportunities for the team, winning championships, and supporting our athletes at every level.”
he said
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
The inaugural 2026 XGL Summer Season is set to kick off on June 26 in Sacramento, before heading to Chiba, Japan, and culminating in the Championship event from July 24–26 in New Orleans at the Caesars Superdome. The team with the highest cumulative score across the season will claim the first-ever XGL Championship title and a $500,000 prize.
As additional franchise sales are expected in the coming months, the X Games League continues to build momentum toward a more structured, global future. With New York now firmly in its portfolio, XGL is not just expanding—it is redefining how action sports are experienced, supported, and celebrated worldwide.
