New Minnesota Vikings Stadium To Host X Games In 2017, 2018

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - The Minnesota Vikings' new stadium will host ESPN's X Games in 2017 and 2018.

The network announced Wednesday that Minneapolis is the host city for the summer X Games for the next two years. Many of the games will be held in the new U.S. Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis.

X Games vice president Tim Reed says Minneapolis has a "young, vibrant aspect." Reed also cites the new stadium's huge video boards and common areas that can stage musical acts.

Competitions include skateboarding, BMX and motocross. A flat track for motocross will have to be built elsewhere in the city.

It's the first time the X Games have been held in the Upper Midwest since the games began in 1995. The event has been held in Austin, Texas, for the past three years.