The 2026 Winter X Games in Aspen is poised to deliver a thrilling spectacle of extreme winter sports, attracting world-class athletes to compete for top honors. This comprehensive guide details the myriad ways fans can access live coverage of the event online, particularly focusing on options that don't require traditional cable television subscriptions. From free trials to dedicated sports streaming packages, spectators have a range of choices to ensure they don't miss any of the high-octane action.
As the prelude to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, the Winter X Games: Aspen draws an elite roster of global talent, including renowned figures such as Scotty James, Chloe Kim, and Mikaela Shiffrin. These athletes will converge in Colorado to vie for gold, silver, and bronze medals across a variety of disciplines. The 25th annual extreme winter sports competition, which commences on Friday, January 23, encompasses events in skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling, among others. A complete schedule for the Winter X Games is readily available for those wishing to plan their viewing.
For viewers keen to watch the events online, numerous streaming avenues are accessible, some even offering free access. DirecTV provides a 5-day free trial, allowing subscribers to access its "MySports" package for $69.99 per month, which includes ESPN and ABC, alongside over 20 other sports channels such as FOX, CBS, and NBC. This option is ideal for cord-cutters looking for comprehensive sports coverage.
Another excellent choice is ESPN Unlimited, priced at $29.99 per month. This service grants access to the full spectrum of ESPN's offerings, including ESPN, ESPN on ABC, ESPN2, ESPN3, and ESPNU. Beyond the Winter X Games, subscribers can enjoy a wide array of other sports leagues, from UFC and F1 to MLB and NHL.
Hulu + Live TV stands out as a robust option, with plans starting at $89.99 per month. It not only offers ESPN and ABC for Winter X Games coverage but also includes more than 95 other live channels, plus access to original content on Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited. Similarly, Fubo provides an extensive selection of over 200 live TV channels for cable-free streaming and includes a 7-day free trial, making it a competitive choice for sports enthusiasts.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly alternative, Sling TV's Sling Orange + Blue package is available for $45.99 per month. This package incorporates both ESPN and ABC, ensuring that viewers can follow the Winter X Games without breaking the bank. It's important to note that pricing and channel availability may vary based on the local TV market.
The 2026 Winter X Games: Aspen will kick off on Friday, January 23, at 12:30 p.m. ET/9:30 a.m. PT. Live broadcasts will be available on ESPN and ABC, accessible through various streaming services like DirecTV and ESPN Unlimited. With multiple flexible streaming options, fans have unprecedented access to the thrilling competitions at Buttermilk Mountain in Aspen, Colorado, ensuring they can witness every gravity-defying trick and exhilarating race.
