General Info

Schedule of Events

Race Course

General Information

Date:  July 19, 2026

Departure Point: Wausau, WI

Arrival Point:  Wausau, WI

Registration:

New racer to AirVenture Cup Race – Click Here to Begin the Registration Process

Returning Racer-  Click Here to Sign In.

At 9:00 AM, aircraft of every shape and speed will roar off the runway for the 28th running of the AirVenture Cup at the Wausau Downtown Airport – KAUW.

Moments after takeoff, racers will charge northeast along a fast-paced cross-country course, hitting intermediate checkpoints before sprinting back to Wausau for the finish. It’s pure adrenaline, precision flying, and bragging rights—wrapped into one unforgettable day in the sky.

✈️ WHO CAN RACE?

Everyone with a passion for flight, a respect for safety, and a spirit of adventure.

Pilots of every background and aircraft performance level have raced—and won. Aircraft are grouped into competitive classes based on certification type, engine size, induction, and landing gear so every plane has a fair shot at the podium.

Whether this is your first race or your fastest yet…
There’s a spot for you on the starting line.

2026 Race 334 Takeoff

MORE THAN A RACE — IT’S A FULL WEEKEND EXPERIENCE

Friday Night Kickoff
 Early arrivals gather for an informal meet-and-greet. It’s the perfect way to break the ice, swap flying stories, and connect with fellow racers before the big day. (Warning: race tales tend to get faster as the night goes on!)

Saturday Airport Open House & Rookie Briefing
 The public is invited to explore the race pit, see the aircraft up close, and meet the pilots in a safe, family-friendly environment. Aviation is on full display—exciting, educational, and inspiring.

New to air racing? Don’t miss the Rookie Briefing, designed especially for first-time racers. You’ll learn the course layout, race procedures, and safety expectations so you can arrive at race day confident, prepared, and ready to fly smart.

Sunday: RACE DAY
 The full field launches in a cross-country air race with intermediate turn points along the course. Precision, teamwork, and safety guide every mile from takeoff to finish. After landing and enjoying lunch, most racers depart for Oshkosh to begin an unforgettable week of aviation adventure.

Monday Night Awards Ceremony
 Results are announced and trophies awarded as racers, volunteers, friends, and family gather to celebrate a successful race and the start of a great week at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.

RACE ENTRY FEE

$345 – Complete application submitted before May 1, 2026
$395 – Applications submitted between May 2 and June 1, 2026

Your entry includes:
 ✔ Participation in the AirVenture Cup
 ✔ T-shirts for racer & co-pilot
 ✔ Commemorative race program
 ✔ Airport Open House in Wausau, WI
 ✔ Pre-race dinner & race briefing
 ✔ One-week admission to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh
 ✔ Preferred parking on the flightline at AVC Race Headquarters at AirVenture – Oshkosh
 ✔ Discounted admission credential for your co-pilot

HOTEL INFORMATION

Jefferson Street Inn
201 Jefferson Street, Wausau, WI 54403
 715-845-6500
 Ask for the 2026 AirVenture Cup rate

 

WHY RACE?

Because this isn’t just a flight.
 It’s a challenge.
 It’s a community.
 It’s a story you’ll tell for the rest of your flying life.

New pilot? First-time racer? Longtime competitor?
This is your invitation to be part of something legendary.

2026 SPONSORS