VIDEO: Bobcat powers ground-up build of X Games New Orleans course
CTLs, skid-steers, excavators, and large wheel loaders were used to fine-tune the BMX dirt track
Bobcat Company is bringing the next X Games course to life as the competition’s Official Equipment Partner.
Teams of builders, operators, and course designers work behind the scenes to transform raw dirt and materials into difficult courses, ramps, and competition environments that define the X Games experience. Bobcat equipment helps power that process, supporting the crews responsible for creating the stage for unforgettable moments in action sports.
The 2026 X Games
The 2026 X Games began its run in Sacramento, California, June 26–28, where Bobcat helped build the dirt course, before continuing in Chiba, Japan, July 4–5.
The final stop and championship event of the inaugural 2026 MoonPay X Games League (XGL) Summer Season took place July 24–26 in New Orleans after builders spent weeks prepping the dirt course with precision.
Bobcat built the BMX course as the X Games' Official Equipment Partner
As part of the partnership, Bobcat equipment, including compact track loaders, skid-steer loaders, excavators and large wheel loaders, was used throughout course preparation, with the primary focus on building and fine-tuning the dirt track used for BMX competition.
“As a company built around hard work, craftsmanship and getting the job done right, we're proud to support the people behind the scenes who make X Games possible,” said Laura Ness Owens, chief marketing officer for Bobcat Company. “The spotlight belongs to the athletes, and we’re honoured Bobcat equipment, powered by the skilled crews who prepared every landing, sculpted every feature and built every course, could make this a reality.”
The partnership reflects a shared appreciation for performance, precision, and pushing limits. While athletes test what's possible on the course, Bobcat helps support the professionals whose work makes those moments achievable.
“Delivering world-class action sports events requires world-class infrastructure and vision,” said X Games Chief Revenue Officer Cherie Cohen. “As we launch the inaugural MoonPay X Games League, partnership with Bobcat ensures our venues match the extraordinary talent of our athletes. Bobcat’s equipment gives our build crews the precision and power needed to turn raw terrain into iconic competition stages, driving incredible value for our brand, our sponsors and our global fan base.”
“At Bobcat, we often say that tough work creates remarkable results,” Ness Owens added. “The people building these venues embody that mindset every day. We're proud to help provide the tools that turn their vision into reality.”
Bobcat's course work set the stage for a historic season
The often-unnoticed work of these crews helped set the stage for historic, never-before-done moments this 2026 season, including:
- A World-First in BMX Dirt: Ryan Williams claimed the Gold medal in BMX Dirt Best Trick with a frontflip cannonball nothing front bikeflip — an unprecedented, gravity-defying feat in X Games history.
- An Epic Moto X Milestone: Ben Richards secured the Silver medal in Moto X Best Trick by successfully executing a massive body varial flip to double grab Hart Attack, another incredible trick.
