The X Games are not coming to Whistler.
ESPN announced early Tuesday morning that the three expansion cities of the Global X brand will be Barcelona, Munich and Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil.
The decision is a disappointing blow for resort partners who worked hard to entice the X Games to Whistler for three years beginning in 2013.
Despite getting positive feedback from ESPN throughout the bidding process, Whistler was ultimately not chosen. The three expansion cities will all host summer X Games.
“Whistler put in a very strong bid, and their venues and team are world class,” said Scott Guglielmino, ESPN senior vice president, programming and X Games. “An X Games event at Whistler would be a special experience. Ultimately, the decision to not be at Whistler next year was based on the opportunities in other markets versus any shortcomings with Whistler.”
Resort partners had thrown support behind the bid in an effort to bring the X Games here with Whistler Blackcomb, Tourism Whistler and the Resort Municipality of Whistler each coming to the table with $250,000.
Whistler was one of nine cities shortlisted for the brand expansion.
Pick up a copy of the Pique Thursday for more information.
