The Red Bull Soapbox Race returned to Denver on Saturday, June 13, 2026, featuring non-motorized carts racing through a custom obstacle course [1], [2].
The event marks a significant return for the city, which had not hosted the race for 18 years [1]. By successfully bidding for the event, Denver became one of only two U.S. stops on the current Red Bull tour [2].
Participants navigated a course designed with turns, jumps, and various obstacles [2]. The competition took place at Empower Field at Mile High, specifically utilizing parking lots G, J, and I to accommodate the race layout and spectators [2], [3].
Local leadership participated in the festivities alongside the public. Mayor Mike Johnston competed in the race, piloting a soapbox cart down the course [1].
The Red Bull Soapbox Race is known for combining creative cart design with athletic endurance. The return to Colorado represents a strategic effort by the city to attract high-profile international events to the region [1], [2].
“Denver became one of only two U.S. stops on the current Red Bull tour.”
The return of the Soapbox Race after nearly two decades suggests a renewed effort by Denver's municipal government to leverage sports and entertainment tourism. By securing one of only two U.S. tour slots, the city demonstrates its capacity to host large-scale, niche international events that drive foot traffic to major venues like Empower Field at Mile High.
