2026 Winter Cup Weekend: Field, schedule, how to watch

The 2026 Winter Cup is set for February 21-22 at the Kentucky International Convention Center.

Feb. 28, 2026 at 11:07am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The 2026 Winter Cup marks the beginning of the U.S. elite gymnastics season. Despite many athletes being on a post-Olympic hiatus or busy with college gymnastics, there are still high stakes in Louisville. Winter Cup is a qualifying event for the 2026 Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships, and the Men's Senior National Team will be named after the competition. International assignments, including American Cup, will also be decided following the meet.

Why it matters

The Winter Cup is a crucial early-season event that sets the tone for the rest of the elite gymnastics calendar. It provides an opportunity for up-and-coming gymnasts to make a statement, while also allowing veteran athletes to make their comebacks after injuries or other absences.

The details

On the men's side, Olympians Fred Richard, Yul Moldauer, and Shane Wiskus headline the field, along with 2025 Winter Cup champion Riley Loos and NCAA standouts like Sasha Bognosiuk and David Shamah. The women's competition features Olympic gold medalist Hezly Rivera and her WOGA teammate Claire Pease, as well as rising stars like Simone Rose and first-year seniors Charleigh Bullock and Caroline Moreau. The junior women's field is particularly deep, with gymnasts like Espy Chang, Aulya Daniels, and Avery Haines expected to make waves.

  • The 2026 Winter Cup is set for February 21-22 at the Kentucky International Convention Center.
  • The Nastia Liukin Cup will be held the afternoon of March 7th, in conjunction with American Cup.

The players

Fred Richard

An Olympian representing Michigan.

Yul Moldauer

An Olympian representing 5280.

Shane Wiskus

An Olympian representing EVO.

Hezly Rivera

An Olympic gold medalist representing WOGA.

Claire Pease

A WOGA gymnast who made waves last summer after winning the U.S. Classic.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.