The WoW Northrend Cup 2026 is now live, sending players back across the frozen continent for two weeks of Skyriding races. The event began on August 25 and ends on September 8. To start, speak with Lord Andestrasz near the Rostrum of Transformation in Valdrakken, or look for event access in Stormwind, Orgrimmar and Northrend.
There are 12 courses spread across zones including Grizzly Hills, Icecrown, Borean Tundra, Dragonblight, Sholazar Basin and the Storm Peaks. Every course is available in Normal, Advanced and Reverse versions. Players use an original Dragonflight Skyriding mount during the races, but Blizzard provides a loaner Riders of Azeroth Drake to anyone who does not own one.
Completing activities awards Riders of Azeroth Badges. These can be spent with Maztha in Valdrakken or Dathendrash in Stormwind and Orgrimmar. The current reward list includes the Skymaster's Blood cosmetic pieces, the returning Icy Drake Racer set, dragon customizations, the Vial of Endless Draconic Scales toy and other older racing items.
Players who earn Gold on every Northrend Cup race receive the Northrend Racing Completionist: Gold achievement, the “Northrend Racer” title and the Frosted Riders of Azeroth Tabard. These rewards and the event dates are confirmed by Blizzard. The company has not announced an extension, so players should plan around the September 8 end date.
The event is a useful target for collectors and a lighter activity between raids or Mythic+ runs. New racers can begin with the Normal routes, then learn where to spend Vigor before moving to Advanced and Reverse. Source: Official World of Warcraft source
Image credit: Blizzard Entertainment.