During the May holiday weekend, more than 40 elite riders from at least 12 countries participated in this competition, which combined speed, freestyle, and spectacle on a world-class urban circuit.
The event was part of the state strategy “Year of the World Championships 2026,” promoted by the Jalisco Ministry of Tourism to attract more than 100 global events.
Sports tourism boosts occupancy and international exposure. The competition attracted more than 22,000 attendees and generated significant tourism revenue, supported by Puerto Vallarta’s hotel infrastructure, which boasts 456 lodging establishments and 27,504 rooms.
In addition to its economic impact, the event received extensive international media coverage through networks such as ESPN, Fox, Disney+, National Geographic, Televisa, and TV Azteca, reinforcing the destination’s image as a strategic hub for extreme sports. Sports tourism represents approximately 10 percent of global tourism spending, solidifying its position as one of the fastest-growing segments.
The route began at the Mirador del Cerro de la Cruz viewpoint and descended to the Pacific Ocean, passing through streets, stairways, and iconic areas of downtown Puerto Vallarta. The technical design of the course was the work of international specialists such as Ollie Wilkins, Christian Fairclough, and Liam Mason.
The destination offered not only ideal conditions for the competition but also tourist infrastructure, natural landscapes, and urban experiences that solidify its appeal to visitors and athletes. As part of the complementary activities, international riders gave free clinics for local children and teenagers, promoting the safe practice of the sport.
This edition featured competitors from the Czech Republic, France, Spain, the United States, Canada, Colombia, Chile, Argentina, Greece, and Mexico, with world-class figures such as Tomáš Slavík, Sam Pilgrim, Bienvenido Aguado, Nicholi Rogatkin, Antoine Bizet, Rémy Métailler, Kilian Bron, and Johny Salido.
Winners:
Speed Trial
First Place: Camilo Sánchez
Second Place: Jero Paez
Third Place: Fabián Alcántar
Freestyle
First Place: Nicholi Rogatkin
Second Place: Bienvenido Aguado
Third Place: Sam Pilgrim
Best Trick
Looking ahead to a new edition in 2027, Jalisco reaffirms its capacity to host high-impact international events and strengthens its leadership as a key destination for sports and adventure tourism.
Source: cronica
