X Games Aspen Celebrates 25 Years with Ambitious Future Plans
The Winter X Games Aspen celebrates 25 years at Buttermilk Ski Area this week, marking an important milestone for the event. The festivities began on January 22, 2026, with discussions highlighting the event’s lasting impact and future plans. X Games CEO Jeremy Bloom emphasized their commitment to remaining in Aspen for another quarter century.
Celebrating a Legacy
Bloom, a former Olympic moguls champion, noted the iconic nature of the X Games’ presence in Aspen since 2002. He assured fans that the games are here to stay, stating, “Thank you to the town of Aspen for 25 years. We look forward to the next 25 years here in Aspen.”
Exciting Changes and New Directions
Under Bloom’s leadership, the X Games has been evolving. Notable changes include:
- A new logo introduced in September.
- A team-based league launching in summer 2026.
- Increased sponsorship opportunities.
This year’s event is expected to be the largest since 2020, just before the global COVID-19 pandemic prompted a significant pause in various events.
Athletes Return to Compete
Among the athletes returning to the competition is Jamie Anderson, a 21-time X Games medalist. After taking time off to become a mother, the 35-year-old is eager to return to the slopes. “X Games is really where my snowboard career started,” she remarked.
Featured Competitions
The schedule features several exciting events:
- Snowmobiling is back on the main stage after a brief hiatus.
- The women’s snowboard slopestyle final begins the competition on Friday.
- Snowmobile freestyle finals take place on Friday, while speed & style finals are slated for Sunday.
Canadian snowmobiler Brett Turcotte expressed excitement for the return of motorsports: “It’s so awesome to be back. I’m motivated for redemption.”
Olympic Prep and Local Talent
As the X Games coincide with the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympic Games, many athletes see this event as key preparatory ground. U.S. Ski & Snowboard announced a list of 97 athletes heading to the Olympics. Notable absences include Chloe Kim, yet many top competitors are gearing up for the unique experience of X Games.
Local athletes Hanna Faulhaber and Alex Ferreira are also set to compete. Ferreira, aiming for his fourth X Games gold, will face tough competition, including Indiana’s Nick Goepper, who has been a rival in previous X Games.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
As the X Games Aspen marks its 25th anniversary, the future looks bright. With exciting plans and a rich history, this event continues to be a significant platform for athletes. Many anticipate the next chapter in the legacy of the X Games at Buttermilk Ski Area.
