Get ready for an action-packed event as the Red Bull District Ride 2026 is set to take place in Groningen, Netherlands. This year's competition marks a significant milestone as it will be the first edition to feature a separate women's contest, alongside the highly anticipated men's contest. The event promises to showcase the incredible talent and progression of both genders in the world of slopestyle and freeride. With a diverse range of riders, from seasoned veterans to rising stars, the competition is sure to deliver thrilling performances and unforgettable moments.
A Celebration of Women's Slopestyle
One of the most exciting aspects of this year's Red Bull District Ride is the introduction of a dedicated women's contest. This move is a testament to the sport's growing popularity and the increasing number of talented female riders. The women's roster features six top-ranked riders, including the formidable Robin Goomes, who has dominated the scene with her progressive tricks and back-to-back Red Bull Rampage wins. Goomes will be looking to make even more history in Groningen, as she becomes the first woman to compete in the event.
Another standout performer is Alma Wiggberg, a Swedish all-rounder who made history in 2025 by winning the first-ever women's contest at Red Bull Joyride at Crankworx Whistler. Wiggberg's technical prowess and clinical execution have earned her a place among the top riders, and she will be a force to be reckoned with on the course.
The youngest rider on the women's roster is Johanna Nussbaumer, a 17-year-old sensation who has already proven herself on the biggest stages. Nussbaumer's podium finishes and impressive performances have earned her a wildcard spot, and she will be targeting a top-three finish in Groningen.
A Diverse Field of Men's Riders
The men's contest is equally impressive, with a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars. One of the standout riders is Tim Bringer, nicknamed 'The Hulk' for his aggressive riding style. Bringer's double backflips and potential in-contest world-first triple in the Big Air District make him a favorite among fans.
Another rider to watch is Chance Moore, who ran Bringer close in last year's Crankworx FMBA Slopestyle World Cup. Moore's explosive form and innovative tricks, such as the backflip tailwhip 360, make him a strong contender for the podium.
The French rider Paul Couderc is also a force to be reckoned with, having finished fifth at the most recent Red Bull District Ride. Couderc's big-air style and freeride edits showcase his fearless approach to the sport.
Rising Stars and Veterans
The men's field is filled with rising stars and veterans alike. Ben Thompson, a 23-year-old from Squamish, British Columbia, is constantly progressing and has earned a reputation for his technical combinations and opposite tricks. Thompson will thrive in the creativity-focused dual district.
Dawid Godziek, a slopestyle legend, is another rider to watch. Godziek's competition mastery and solo projects, such as the Red Bull Bike Express, make him a fan favorite. Despite having eluded victory at Red Bull District Ride in the past, Godziek will be determined to complete his collection in Groningen.
Erik Fedko, a German rider with two Red Bull District Ride appearances, is also a strong contender. Fedko's fifth-place finish in 2017 and podium spot in 2022 showcase his consistency and potential for success.
Young Talent and Wildcards
The men's field is also filled with young talent and wildcards. Dane Folpp, the youngest male competitor at 19 years old, is out to prove his technical abilities despite his lack of experience. Folpp's FMBA Red Bull Rookie of the Year award and wild card spot in the 2026 FMBA Slopestyle Super League make him a rider to watch.
Another wildcard, Kaidan Ingersoll, has risen to third in the world and knows what it takes to win. Ingersoll's iconic trick links and chance to shine on the oversized features of Red Bull District Ride make him a strong contender.
Griffin Paulson, a relative veteran, has been on the scene for years without breaking through to top-tier events' podium places. Paulson's wildcard entry and ninth-place finish at Slovakia's Birell Bike Fest make him a dark horse in the competition.
Video Contest Winners and Rising Prospects
The men's field also includes video contest winners and rising prospects. Jake Atkinson, the UK's most exciting slopestyle prospect, earned his place through a video submission contest. Atkinson's big competition experience and second-place finish at the 2023 Red Bull Roof Ride in Poland make him a strong contender.
Max Fredriksson, another Red Bull Roof Ride runner-up, also secured his spot in Groningen through the video contest. Fredriksson's experience and podium finishes showcase his potential for success.
Pim Scheers, a Dutch national champion in Dirt and UCI BMX Park, brings hyper-technical trickery honed on 20-inch wheels to the big bike. Scheers' wildcard entry and determination to pull out all the stops in front of his home crowd make him a rider to watch.
A Celebration of Slopestyle and Freeride
The Red Bull District Ride 2026 is more than just a competition; it's a celebration of slopestyle and freeride. The event showcases the incredible talent and progression of riders from both genders, as they push the boundaries of what's possible on their bikes. With a diverse range of riders and a new venue and course, the competition is sure to deliver thrilling performances and unforgettable moments.
As the event approaches, fans can expect to witness the relentless progression of the sport and the incredible talent of the riders. The Red Bull District Ride 2026 is a must-watch for anyone passionate about slopestyle and freeride, and it promises to be an action-packed and memorable event.
