About
Following a successful debut event last year, the World Downhill Skateboarding Championship returns to the Isle of Man from 3 to 5 July 2026. Building on last year’s success, the event has grown in scale and will this year take place on the iconic TT Mountain Course, further enhancing the Island’s reputation as a premier destination for adrenaline-fuelled sport set against breathtaking natural landscapes.
A total of 60 competitors from 17 countries will take on the high-speed course, testing both skill and bravery. The lineup features world-class athletes, many of whom have substantial social media followings in their own right, helping to bring additional global visibility to the event. Among them are two Manx riders, Jack Killey and Juan Callister, who will be proudly representing the Isle of Man, bringing local insight and strong home support to an otherwise international field.
Athletes will race at top speeds from the start at Joey’s Corner, just below Guthrie’s Memorial, down to Lheaney Road by the Ramsey Hairpin. Encouraged by the overwhelming support from the local community in 2025, organisers have expanded the event experience with a vibrant festival village in Ramsey, located opposite the Bus Station.
This will feature:
- Big-screen live feed from the Mountain Course
- Local food & drink vendors
- Beer tent
- Children’s skateboard area
- Dedicated media hub
- T-shirt signings
The Festival Village opposite Ramsey Bus Station will be open:
- Friday 3 July: 16:00 to 22:00
- Saturday 4 July: 12:00 to 22:00
- Sunday 5 July: 12:00 to 22:00
Street Luge and Skateboarding action will take place from 10:00am on both Saturday 4 July and Sunday 5 July.
Enjoying the event safely and where to watch:
Spectators are encouraged to explore different sections of the course throughout the weekend. One of the fastest and most technical sections on the Mountain Course is the Gooseneck, where riders will carry tremendous speed into the corner making it a dramatic viewing point. You can expect plenty of action at Ramsey Hairpin. This corner demands that riders aggressively manage their speed and could be an opportunity for a decisive overtake just before the finish line. You will see squadrons of camera drones following the athletes to relay footage to the big screen in Ramsey and for worldwide broadcast.
To enjoy the event safely, please follow all instructions provided by marshals. Marshals may ask spectators to move to designated viewing areas or remain behind barriers for safety reasons. Always listen to and follow their guidance. Listen carefully for whistles and public announcements.
Please do not enter the roadway while racing is active. Shuttle vehicles will be operating to transport riders back up the course, and sections of the spectator areas may only be accessible when marshals advise it is safe to do so. Parking is available behind the Gooseneck. Entering and exiting may be difficult at busy times.
Essential information for residents and event spectators:
Road closures:
The northern section of the A18 Mountain Road will be closed between Barrule Park, Ramsey and The Bungalow during the following times:
- Friday 3 July: 18:30 until no later than 23:30 (for course set up)
- Saturday 4 July: 9:00am until no later than 23:30 (practice and qualification)
- Sunday 5 July: 9:00am until no later than midnight (racing and course take down)
Alternative routes between Ramsey and Douglas:
During the road closures, the following alternative routes will remain available:
- A2 Coast Road between Ramsey & Onchan
- A1 and A3 roads via Kirk Michael and Ballacraine
- Sulby to Douglas via A14 Tholt Y Will Road and the A18 Mountain Road (between the Bungalow & The Creg Ny Baa) – Note: this route is unsuitable for HGVs & PSVs
Additional information:
- The Beinn Y Phott Road will remain open as usual
- Access to Victory Café, Snaefell Summit Café and Snaefell Mountain Railway will be available at all times from Douglas via the southern section of the A18 Mountain Road, Tholt Y Will Road and Beinn y Phott Road
- Access to the Creg Ny Baa Hotel will remain available from Douglas (via Hilberry) and the Creg Ny Baa Back Road
