Swatch Nines in Sölden 2026: One course, two cycling categories – will the idea work?

Six days of cycling spectacle in Austria – and this year marks a first: BMX is taking part as a fully-fledged category for the first time. The organisers have redesigned the existing freeride and slopestyle courses so that both disciplines get their money’s worth.

Skate Plaza meets Dirt Lines

The slopestyle line has been completely revamped – now BMXers can really let rip on it. The ‘Satellite Feature’ from previous years is making a comeback. And in the lower section, the largest skatepark construction the Nines has ever seen is taking shape: a massive skate plaza that flows directly into the mountain bike lines. The combination of dirt and wood is set to open up new possibilities for both sports.

Built by drivers for drivers

The course wasn’t designed on the drawing board, but last winter in the Creators’ Cabin. BMX legend Kevin Peraza (USA), MTB star Sam Pilgrim (GBR), Erik Fedko (GER), Johanna Nussbaumer (AUT) and George Ntavoutian (GRC) worked closely with Lead Course Builder Sam Hodgson (GBR). Hodgson is particularly looking forward to the BMX debut: “I’m really excited to see how the athletes tackle the course.”

A strong field of riders from 14 nations

Over 60 athletes from 14 nations are taking part. BMX: Kevin Peraza leads the field, alongside Kriss Kyle (GBR), Perris Benegas (USA), George Ntavoutian (GRC) and Boyd Hilder (AUS). MTB contingent: Erik Fedko (GER), the Godziek brothers Dawid and Szymon (POL), Patricia Druwen (GER) and Veronique Sandler (NZ). A top-class line-up.

Wildcards for the next generation

Four talented riders secured their places via the Become A Nine Video Contest: Jana Noemi (MTB, Switzerland), Dan Paley (MTB, Great Britain), Esme Morris (BMX, Great Britain) and Dean Florian (BMX, Australia) impressed the judging panel.

Free entry – including a shuttle service

The Public Days are free of charge. On Thursday 18 June, the Public Night Show takes place – smoke bombs, glow sticks and tricks under the floodlights. This is followed by the big Public Day on Saturday 20 June. Shuttle buses run from Innsbruck, Munich and the Allgäu. Full details on transport links and tickets are available on the Nines website and social media channels.

In a nutshell

• Event: Swatch Nines Bike 2026, Bike Republic Sölden, Austria
• Date: 15 to 20 June 2026
• Public Days: 18 June 2026 (Evening Show), 20 June 2026
• Disciplines: Mountain bike freeride, mountain bike slopestyle, BMX
• Participants: More than 60 athletes from 14 countries
• Wildcards: Jana Noemi (MTB, SUI), Dan Paley (MTB, GBR), Esme Morris (BMX, GBR), Dean Florian (BMX, AUS)
• Highlights: First joint MTB and BMX event at Swatch Nines, the largest skate plaza in Nines history, free public event, shuttle service from Innsbruck, Munich and the Allgäu