Red Bull X-Alps Challenger 2026 in Mayrhofen

The Red Bull X-Alps Challenger 2026 will take place from May 28th to 30th, 2026 in Mayrhofen in the Zillertal Valley and will introduce a new competition format. The event is aimed at ambitious adventure athletes from around the world and is considered an entry point into the toughest race in the hike & fly category. Nestled in the alpine landscape of the Tyrolean Alps, the Red Bull X-Alps Challenger combines several disciplines such as trail running, mountaineering, and paragliding, focusing on both peak physical and mental performance.

The sporting event spans three intense days of competition. On the first day, up to 200 athletes begin a challenging climb from the valley to the mountain, ascending approximately 1,400 meters in altitude. The time is stopped as soon as the first 100 participants reach the finish line. These athletes qualify for the next round, with a minimum number of female participants required.

The second day consists of three short but challenging mountain running laps, each with approximately 440 meters of elevation gain. These are combined with fast paragliding flights back down to the valley. Only the top 40 athletes ultimately reach the final, which takes place on the third day.

The final day is the highlight of the event: an approximately 80-kilometer out-and-return course challenges the participants in the Hike & Fly discipline. They repeatedly fly over the town of Mayrhofen, combining strategic route management with endurance and flying skills. The winners secure a wildcard for Red Bull X-Alps 2027, while other top finishers receive additional qualification opportunities.

The Red Bull X-Alps Challenger also offers an exciting experience for spectators. Mayrhofen itself provides excellent opportunities to follow the race live, as the athletes pass through the town several times. Furthermore, the start and finish areas right next to the Ahornbahn cable car offer additional views of the action. Spectacular scenes of trail running, mountaineering, and paragliding can be observed in the surrounding mountains.

With a little planning, spectators can use various vantage points to follow both the launch phases and the flight sections. Especially in good weather conditions, impressive images are created when several athletes are in the air at the same time.

The venue for the Red Bull X-Alps Challenger 2026: Mayrhofen in the Zillertal valley © Archive TVB Mayrhofen-Hippach | Becknaphoto

Overall, the Red Bull X-Alps Challenger combines top athletic performance with a stunning alpine backdrop, offering both participants and spectators an intense and diverse event experience. The combination of competition, nature, and an international field of participants makes the event a special highlight in the region's event calendar.

More information at: www.redbullxalps.com/int-en/events/challenger-mayrhofen