In a significant shift for the extreme sports industry, X Games CEO Jeremy Bloom has announced plans to introduce a new league format that could include a team based in Denver. This move is part of a broader transformation aimed at modernizing the X Games, incorporating professional sports elements, and expanding its global reach. The proposed changes include city-based teams, athlete salaries, health care benefits, and an innovative eight-city tour schedule set to debut in 2026. Bloom emphasizes the importance of creating compelling narratives and high-stakes moments to captivate audiences, drawing parallels to successful sports storytelling models like Netflix's "Drive to Survive" series.
Denver on the Radar for New X Games League
In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, discussions are underway that could see Denver become home to a new X Games franchise. According to X Games CEO Jeremy Bloom, who hails from Loveland and was once a CU Buff, conversations with potential ownership groups in Denver have progressed significantly. These groups envision a team named after Colorado, perhaps something catchy like the "Colorado Corkscrew" or "Denver Double Grabs." Bloom believes this idea holds substantial promise.
The upcoming changes to the X Games, slated for implementation in 2026, aim to revolutionize the extreme sports landscape. A Formula 1-style calendar will feature eight cities hosting events throughout the year, four in winter and four in summer. Teams will consist of ten athletes—five men and five women—each selected through drafts designed to maximize podium finishes. Athletes will receive salaries, travel stipends, and healthcare benefits, aligning the X Games more closely with traditional professional sports leagues.
Bloom highlights the importance of evolving the media strategy to engage younger audiences. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat will play a pivotal role in content distribution, mirroring the success of Netflix’s "Drive to Survive" in popularizing Formula 1 among American viewers under 35. Bloom envisions creating thrilling, high-pressure moments that resonate deeply with fans, much like Shaun White’s iconic Olympic gold medal run.
While Aspen, a long-standing host city, remains a crucial part of the X Games legacy, Bloom acknowledges the challenges of maintaining its position amid growing interest from other global cities. Despite these hurdles, he remains committed to keeping a Colorado presence in the expanded tour, emphasizing the unique appeal and history of the region.
From a journalist's perspective, the proposed changes signal a bold new era for extreme sports. By embracing professional sports structures and leveraging digital platforms, the X Games can attract broader audiences and foster deeper connections with fans. The introduction of city-based teams and structured tours promises to elevate the sport’s profile, offering athletes stable careers and fans exhilarating competitions. As Bloom aptly puts it, the X Games are poised to embark on a transformative journey that could redefine the future of extreme sports.
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