What changes for U12, U14 and U16 racers in 2026-27?

Question

Accepted Answer

Nordiq Canada's youth sport development updates start in the 2026-27 season (the first season under the updates, to be evaluated in spring 2027):

Rankings: U12 and U14 athletes no longer receive Canada Points List (CPL) rankings. CPL rankings begin at U16.
U12 races: no rankings, podiums, medals or awards based on placement. Organizers may still recognize participation and achievement in age-appropriate ways.
U14: no CPL rankings and no race licence needed. Limited exemptions to the National Championships age rule may be considered for exceptional U14 athletes with divisional support.
U16: the first level with CPL rankings, and the minimum category eligible for the Nordiq Canada National Ski Championships.
Racing up: restricted to U20 and above, with exceptions such as World Junior Trials and NCAA eligibility requirements.
Collegiate racing: the Canadian Collegiate Nordic Series continues and is integrated into Tier 1 and Tier 2 events, with updated eligibility requirements to make participation easier for student-athletes.
Not yet decided: wax protocols and youth ski fleet limits (a feasibility study was due in fall 2026).