Major event at Christchurch’s new stadium canned two months out

A major event scheduled for Christchurch’s One New Zealand Stadium has been canned as the international series behind it holds talks with potential investors about its future. 

The FIM World Supercross Championship was due to make its New Zealand debut in Christchurch in December, with the event serving as the finale of a six-round season spanning Canada, England, Argentina, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. 

However, only the opening round in Calgary was held before the remainder of the season was cancelled. 

World Supercross features some of the world’s best riders racing on tight, technical dirt tracks. The Christchurch finale was expected to decide the championship titles. 

In a social media post today, One New Zealand Stadium said the FIM World Supercross Championship had confirmed it had cancelled the remainder of the 2026 season. 

Christchurch was set to host the FIM World Supercross Championship finale in December. Photo / Kawasaki Motor Europe 

This included the event at One New Zealand Stadium, which had been set to go ahead on December 5. 

One New Zealand Stadium said the championship “continues discussions with potential investors regarding the future of the competition”. 

“Venues Ōtautahi share in the disappointment of motorsport fans who were looking forward to the series’ New Zealand debut,” the post read. 

“Tickets were yet to go on sale for this event, but a number of premium hospitality guests have already locked in their spots for this event and will be refunded.” 

The post said Venues Ōtautahi “remains committed to identifying unique world-class events that show off One NZ Stadium’s versatility”. 

“We are delighted to see the strength of sporting content at One NZ Stadium to date, delivering far ahead of our expectations. 

“Despite this disappointment, with a strong pipeline ahead, we look forward to welcoming more sporting, entertainment and other major events to One NZ Stadium in the future.” 

When the event was first announced, Venues Ōtautahi chief executive Caroline Harvie-Teare said it was a great opportunity to showcase the stadium on the world stage. 

“Welcoming the FIM World Supercross Championship to Christchurch is a major moment for the city and another wonderful milestone for One New Zealand Stadium.” 

The event was also set to provide another challenge for the stadium, which would have been transformed from a concert venue into an indoor dirt track a week after the Robbie Williams concert on November 28.