X Games Announces First-Ever Founder Athletes of New League

Jun 30, 2025

Written by Bart de Jong

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As X Games Salt Lake City marks the 30th anniversary of the world’s most iconic action sports event, a new era begins with the launch of X Games League (XGL) and the announcement of its inaugural “Founder Athletes”: Ryan Sheckler, Nyjah Huston and Ryan Williams. These three legends—each a defining figure in their sport—will help shape the future of XGL. Their influence on action sports culture is undeniable, and they now take on a new role in helping build the most ambitious evolution in X Games history. Starting Summer 2026, X Games League transforms action sports into a team-based, seasonal league format. Skateboarding and BMX will headline the inaugural Summer X Games League

(SXGL), with Snowboarding and Skiing launching Winter X Games League (WXGL) in early 2027.

XGL moves beyond standalone competitions, building season-long narratives, rivalries, and storylines that drive deeper fan connection. The format unlocks new earning potential and stability for athletes, delivers more compelling content for media partners, and creates powerful new platforms for sponsors—while staying true to the roots of X Games.

For Huston, widely regarded as the greatest street skateboarder of all time, this is about giving action sports athletes the stage they deserve. “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. “I’m hyped to be part of something that keeps the competition going and builds more excitement for the fans." 

A skateboarding prodigy, Sheckler brought X Games into the mainstream, becoming a household name after his meteoric rise to fame. “Helping shape something built with the athletes—where we have real input—makes this incredibly personal,” he said. “I’m proud to be part of it from day one.”

Williams, known worldwide for his gravity-defying BMX tricks and viral video stunts, is focused on redefining how fans experience the sport. “X Games League is attempting to innovate just like we do with action sports,” said Williams. “I’m excited to introduce the aspect of team into an already tight-knit community within action sports.”

As XGL Founder Athletes, Huston, Sheckler, and Williams will contribute directly to league development—helping design formats, shape athlete experience, and build a fan-first culture. Over the next several months, X Games will announce more Founder Athletes, team names, season schedules, athlete drafts, and media partners as momentum builds toward the Summer 2026 league debut.