DARKFEST 2026: Rider List and Details
Darkfest is back in 2026, celebrating a decade of dirt, danger, and firsts. What started as a DIY project amongst friends has evolved into the ultimate freeride mountain biking event. We can't wait to see what 2026 has in store.
“Creating the first Darkfest, I never would have imagined what it could become 10 years later,” says Sam Reynolds. “It’s surpassed my wildest dreams and expectations, and I am so thankful for all the amazing people who have been I loved and memories it has created. I hope everyone has enjoyed it so far, I can’t wait to get started on this years build, as always we will try our best to make it sicker than ever!”
DARKFEST
Returning to the iconic Hellsend Dirt Compound at Vuurberg Wine Farm, the 2026 event will bring together the world’s best freeriders to tackle the most challenging course ever designed. From the mind-melting 110-foot gaps and massive step-ups that have shaped freeride over the years, the 10th anniversary aims to push limits of freeride with some of the best athletes to ever do it. DARKFEST is celebrating the evolution of freeride mountain biking with legends, newcomers, and wildcards. You don't want to miss it.
Follow the Darkness:
Instagram: @Darkfest_MTB
YouTube: Sam Reynolds
Price Giving
2026 Darkfest Invited Riders List
Sam Reynolds (Uk) | Ike Klaassen (Rsa) |
Clemens Kaudela (At) | Bienve Aguado (Esp) |
Sam Hodgson (Uk) | Brendan Fairclough (Uk) |
Vero Sandler (Uk/Nz) | Chelsea Kimball (Usa) |
Lukas Schafer (Ger) | Dylan Lamb (Rsa) |
Paul Couderc (Fra) | Cami Nogueira (Arg) |
Theo Erlangsen (Rsa) | Kaos Seagrave (Uk) |
Kaidan Ingersoll (Usa) | Graham Agassiz (Can) |
Edgar Briole (Fra) | Chance Moore (Can) |
Daniel Ruso (At) | Matt Jones (Uk) |
Elias Ruso (At) | Robin Goomes (Nz) |
Tom Isted (Uk) | Szymon Godziek (Pol) |
Matt Macduff (Can) | Talus Turk (Usa) |
Tomas Lemoine (Fra) | Vinny T (Fra) |
Finley Kirschenmann (Usa) | Vinny Armstrong (Nz) |
Lucy Vaneesteren (Can) | Louis Reboul (Fra) |
Vaea Verbeeck (Can) | Natasha Bradley (Uk) |
Alessio “Cornflakes” Tonoli (Sui) | Jack Schliemann (Rsa) |
Dan Paley (Uk) | Chopper Fielder (Uk) |
Dates & Public Access
The riders will be sessioning the course throughout the week, hunting for the perfect green light conditions to stomp the biggest tricks in history. For the fans wanting to witness the carnage in person:
- Public Open Day: Saturday, March 21st, 2026
- Location: Hellsend Dirt Compound, Vuurberg Wine Farm, Stellenbosch.
Eric Palmer
Stay tuned for Build Diary updates and behind-the-scenes content as the event ramps up (pun intended) and riders get ready for the most legendary course in freeride history.