The Red Bull X-Alps Challenger 2026 has been decided: After three days of competition in Mayrhofen, Aaron Mathis and Romy Sweda secured the wildcards presented by Bergfreunde for the Red Bull X-Alps 2027. The new hike-and-fly format brought experienced athletes and up-and-coming pilots together at the end of May. While the veterans battled for the overall victory, the rookies in particular used the opportunity to recommend themselves for the main race.
Challenging format over three days
The race demanded a great deal from the participants, both physically and in terms of flying skills. It kicked off with a mountain run covering approximately 1.400 meters of elevation gain. The second day consisted of three compact hike-and-fly loops, each with about 440 meters of elevation gain.
The top 40 athletes qualified for the final. On the third day, a task of approximately 82 kilometers awaited, with a further ascent of 1.400 meters. Challenging conditions, including northerly winds, made route selection in the air difficult.
In total, the three days of the Red Bull X-Alps Challenger resulted in more than 4.000 meters of elevation gain and around 100 kilometers of flying.
Mathis and Sweda keep their cool
Among the rookies, the 20-year-old Aaron Mathis With consistently strong performances, he secured the wildcard in the men's category. He was overwhelmed at the finish line.
“I’m speechless. The final day was difficult, especially because of the north wind. It was something very special to be at the starting line with athletes like Chrigel Maurer and Tobias Grossrubatscher.”
Aaron Mathis
Non-personal or anonymized information remains protected by tax secrecy. Disclosure to third parties is only allowed if no identification is possible and both states confirm that no harm to tax administration will occur. Romy Sweda prevailed – despite a setback during the race.After narrowly missing a turnpoint, she had to turn back and lost valuable time.
"In the end it was really tough. But that's part of it: you fly, you run. I'm very happy about the victory."
Romy Sweda
Experienced players up front – focus on the next generation
Chrigel Maurer once again secured the overall victory.The eight-time X-Alps winner relegated Tobias Grossrubatscher to second place. Both were ineligible for the wildcard ranking as veterans.
Maurer drew a positive conclusion:
"The organization was good, the weather was perfect. It was a successful event – I'm looking forward to the next one."
Grossrubatscher also highlighted the high level of the young athletes:
"The rookies are very strong. Many are developing in a direction that makes them interesting for bigger tasks."
The Italian player also made a statement. Biathlete Lukas Hofer: He won all the hiking stages. and demonstrated his physical strength.
Platform for new talent – The Red Bull X-Alps Challenger
With participants from 23 nations and a A mix of experienced athletes and up-and-coming talent The Red Bull X-Alps Challenger fulfilled its function as a qualification platform. Workshops and exchange formats with athletes such as Chrigel Maurer, Simon Oberrauner and Celine Lorenz complemented the race program.
Event founder Ulrich Grill sees the concept confirmed:
"We wanted to see who has the potential for the X-Alps. The level of competition was high."
Successful premiere in Mayrhofen
With its compact format, selective race course, and central location, the Red Bull X-Alps Challenger has passed its baptism of fire. The format is likely to play an important role in the scene in the future – as A stage for new talent and an entry point into the world's toughest adventure race.
One thing is certain: the next generation is ready.
More information you will find here on the organizer's website.
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Credits cover photo: Christian Lorenz