The MoonPay X Games League has officially launched, bringing a new year-round competitive format to the action sports scene. Produced by Echo Entertainment, this league transforms the traditional X Games model by featuring city-based teams from around the world, representing cities such as New York, Los Angeles, São Paulo, and Tokyo.
Kicking off at Cal Expo in Sacramento, California, the inaugural season highlights the talents of nearly 100 athletes in disciplines including Skateboarding, BMX, and Moto X, competing across 18 medal events over a three-day span. ESPN2 will kick off the coverage tonight at 8 p.m. ET, with additional broadcasts scheduled on ABC and ESPN throughout the weekend. For those with an Unlimited plan, the ESPN App will also offer streaming options.
X Games CEO Jeremy Bloom expressed optimism about the Sacramento event, noting that it is on track to be the best-selling summer X Games since the pandemic. “Fans have shown up in a big way before a single point has been scored in the league,” he remarked, emphasizing the excitement surrounding this new chapter for the X Games.
Echo Entertainment CEO Dave Gelineau elaborated on the expanded scope of this new league format, highlighting the increased resources dedicated to producing three summer events in just five weeks, including international stops in Japan. Gelineau expressed pride in the collaboration between Echo and X Games teams, stating that the scale of production and content preparation has been exhilarating.
A major focus for the production team is season-long storytelling, which aims to engage fans in the dynamics of the new team-based competition. Gelineau indicated that although individual performances remain central to the event, the emphasis on team points and standings adds a fresh component familiar to traditional sports fans.
The production effort in Sacramento involves two mobile units, Journey and Trillium, provided by Dome Productions. Journey will manage the primary sports production, covering all relevant competitions, while Trillium will cater to vert events and host production. With more than 30 cameras in use — including handhelds, POV cameras, drones, and super-slow-motion devices — the production aims to capture the vibrant action as it unfolds across multiple venues.
Audio is another critical focus, with the team employing a range of on-course effects microphones to create an immersive sound experience, capturing every nuance of the competitions. Additionally, the X Games has partnered with Owl AI for artificial intelligence-driven analysis of vert skateboarding competitions, which will enhance replay and provide real-time data for judges.
Looking ahead, both Bloom and Gelineau highlighted the importance of technology in enhancing the experience for media partners, athletes, and fans alike. The integration of advanced data analytics and AI-driven storytelling aims to make the league more engaging, accessible, and valuable for everyone involved. As this new format takes shape, it seems poised to redefine action sports and its audience in ways that have never been seen before.
