Gripped Magazine
Here’s Where the North American Cup Series Is Going in 2026
Climbing Escalade Canada (CEC) and USA Climbing have announced that the North American Cup Series (NACS) will return in 2026. Running from April to July this year, the series will move back and forth through the USA and Canada. The inaugural series in 2021 had five events. Last year, there were six. There will be five in the upcoming 2026 season – three in the USA and two in Canada. The full schedule is detailed below.
The NACS was first launched by Climbing Escalade Canada (CEC) and USA Climbing in 2021.The mission of the series is to “provide a high-level competition series for advanced and elite athletes from the America’s to continue their development outside of World Cup competition.” CEC and USA Climbing are the national governing bodies for comp climbing in Canada and the USA respectively, as recognized by the International Olympic Committee and the IFSC.
“The North American Cup Series is one of the most exciting initiatives our organizations share,” said Christiane Marceau, CEC Executive Director. “Each season, we see athletes push their limits, discover new opportunities, and build connections across borders. NACS reflects the collaboration, ambition, and community spirit that define our sport.”
“USAC is proud to continue this partnership with CEC,” added Marc Norman, President and CEO of USA Climbing. “NACS provides a rare competitive platform where developing athletes and seasoned competitors stand on the same stage. It elevates the entire pathway, strengthens our sport, and showcases the incredible depth of talent emerging across the continent.”
2026 NACS Schedule
- April 25-25. LEAD & SPEED. Bridgeport, PA, USA
- May 2-3. BOULDER. Location TBD, Canada
- June4-7. BOULDER & SPEED. Vail, CO, USA
- June 26-28. LEAD & SPEED. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- July 25-28. LEAD & SPEED. Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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