The historic Plains of Abraham will be the setting for Athletics history, as Québec City has been chosen to host the 2026 and 2027 editions of the Canadian Cross Country Championships.
Club d’Athlétisme de l’Université Laval will take the lead in organizing the two events, which will take place November 28-29, 2026 and November 27-28, 2027.
“We are incredibly excited to host the Canadian Cross Country Championships on a historical and beautiful site in the heart of Québec City, a city passionate about running,” said Club d’athlétisme de l’Université Laval head coach Sylvain Cloutier. “We can’t wait to showcase Quebec City’s charm and offer an unforgettable experience to all participants. Hosting the Canadian Championships is a unique opportunity to see the country’s best athletes compete on our course, inspire the next generation of athletes, and strengthen the passion for the sport across Canada.”
“Québec City is an outstanding choice to host the Canadian Cross Country Championships,” said Athletics Canada CEO Mathieu Gentès. “With a proven record of delivering world-class cross country events, a passionate local organizing club, and a stunning, historic course, we’re confident the 2026 and 2027 championships will offer an unforgettable experience for athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers and fans alike.”
Bienvenue à Québec
Québec City is one of North America’s oldest cities, a blend of natural beauty and historical charm, offering diverse landscapes and attractions. The provincial capital has played host to more than 100 sports events, including World Championships, World Cups and World Tour legs in various sports, as well as sports conventions.
“We aim to create a memorable atmosphere for all participants and spectators. Athletes will have the chance to compete on an exceptional course with the St. Lawrence River as a backdrop, a course that has also hosted several national championships before,” Cloutier said. “Upon arriving in Québec City, athletes, coaches, and officials can expect a warm welcome from our proud community, eager to share its love for the sport and its city. Beyond the competition, they’ll be able to discover the beauty of the city and its attractions, all in close proximity to the competition site. Our expertise in organizing major sporting events in Québec City will ensure an unforgettable experience for all participants.”
On the cross country front, the same Plains of Abraham site that will host ACXC26 and ACXC27 has acted as the course for the U SPORTS Cross Country Championships five times since 2006, most recently in 2021.
“We are convinced this event will be a source of inspiration for our community, especially for our young athletes and running enthusiasts. Witnessing high-level athletes compete in Quebec City will offer a motivational model for Quebec’s next generation and for running fans, encouraging them to fully invest in their athletic potential,” Cloutier said. “For our community, this is a perfect opportunity to experience the intensity and passion of cross country up close. We are confident these Championships will leave a lasting legacy, strengthening the passion for running and encouraging young athletes to pursue their sporting dreams.”
About the Canadian Cross Country Championships
Known as ACXC, the Canadian Cross Country Championships attract more than 1,300 athletes (in age groups from U16 to Masters), coaches and officials, and showcases the very best of Canada’s elite runners who compete for the title of national champion as well as a chance to represent Canada at NACAC and World Cross Country Championships.
London, Ontario played host to ACXC2024 last fall and will welcome Canada’s best cross country runners again November 29 and 30, 2025.