Here we list some of the major events – WFTDA, MRDA, World Cups, and borderless/state team tournaments – with dates and locations.
For context, WFTDA operates on a two-year competitive cycle. Rankings and sanctioned gameplay begin after July 1 of an even year and run until June 30 two years later. Playoffs occur in spring/early summer of even years, with global championships in the fall.
This structure helps leagues schedule travel games, regional bouts, and ranking-eligible competitions ahead of postseason events.
The Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) runs the largest and most prestigious competitive structure in roller derby. The 2026 postseason includes multiple regional playoffs and culminates in the first‑ever four‑day Global Championships held in Europe.
WFTDA has announced a full slate of regional playoff tournaments across the Americas. Confirmed events include:
These playoffs determine rankings and qualification for the Global Championships.
Significance:
– First WFTDA Champs ever held in Europe
– First four‑day championship format
– This is expected to be one of the most watched derby events of the decade.
This event occurs every four years, so the next Women’s World Cup is expected in 2029 unless organizers adjust the cycle.
This edition emphasizes accessibility, inclusivity, and global representation.
One of the most unique aspects of modern roller derby is the rise of borderless teams – groups formed around shared identity rather than geography. These teams often compete in large multi‑day tournaments.
Format:
– 24 teams
– State, province, territory, and borderless collectives
– Minimum 4 games per team
– WFTDA ruleset
These teams help expand representation and community within the sport.
While not part of the WFTDA postseason path, several tournaments and invitational events remain fan favorites and competitive highlights:
March 20–22, 2026 – Phoenix, Arizona (USA)
A strong early-season WFTDA-sanctioned tournament hosted by Arizona Roller Derby. Teams from across North America compete over three days of games.
2026 Season – United Kingdom and Ireland
An annual league competition featuring teams from across England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. Known for tiered play across multiple levels of competition.
The Men’s Roller Derby Association also hosts league‑level events throughout the year, including:
Many major tournaments offer livestreams—especially WFTDA and MRDA events.
Fans should check for streams during:
Livestreams are typically hosted on YouTube, Twitch, or official event websites.
Between the first European WFTDA Championships, the Men’s World Cup in France, and the continued growth of borderless tournaments, 2026 marks a major step in roller derby’s global expansion. More countries are fielding national teams, more collectives are forming, and more fans are tuning in worldwide.
For skaters, it’s an incredible time to get involved.
For fans, it’s the perfect moment to follow the sport more closely.
For RollerDerbyRoster.com, it’s the ideal opportunity to become a central hub for derby information, names, and community.