sports

Deer Valley World Cup Canceled; Events Relocated to Colder Eastern Venues

Deer Valley's World Cup events have been relocated due to warm weather. Aerials will be in Lake Placid, while moguls go to New Hampshire.

Featured image for article: Deer Valley World Cup Canceled; Events Relocated to Colder Eastern Venues
Due to warm weather and insufficient snow, the annual World Cup competition at Deer Valley Resort has been relocated to other venues, as announced by U.S. Ski & Snowboard and the resort. The aerials World Cup will now be held at Lake Placid, New York, in conjunction with the Stifel Lake Placid Freestyle Cup on January 11-12, 2026. This weekend will feature two individual aerials World Cup events, replacing the previously scheduled team competition. Additionally, the moguls and dual moguls World Cup events will take place at Waterville Valley Resort in New Hampshire on January 15-16. Todd Bennett, president and COO of Deer Valley Resort, stated that the decision was difficult but necessary, given that this year's event was scheduled nearly three weeks earlier than in previous seasons. He noted that the unusually warm temperatures hindered their ability to create the required venues for the aerial and dual mogul events. To host a competition of this caliber, millions of gallons of snowmaking water and extensive grooming efforts are essential. Although colder temperatures are anticipated, the timeline for preparation no longer supports creating a competition environment that meets safety and performance standards. Ticket holders will receive direct communication regarding refunds, according to Deer Valley officials. U.S. Ski & Snowboard emphasized that the changes ensure vital qualification opportunities for athletes in an Olympic year. Sophie Goldschmidt, president and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard, expressed gratitude to Lake Placid and Waterville Valley for their swift collaboration in finding solutions. She emphasized the importance of providing athletes with the best chances to qualify for the Olympic Winter Games and acknowledged Deer Valley's significant role in hosting World Cups. Looking ahead, Bennett mentioned the focus will shift to the winter season, with natural snowfall expected. Deer Valley is preparing to open ten new lifts and over 100 new trails, marking the largest expansion in the resort's history, including a new 10-passenger gondola. There are still many developments planned for skiers, guests, and the local community this season.