The Northern California Classic, also known as the NorCal Classic, is back for the 2026 CrossFit Games season. The NorCal Classic is truly a fitness festival, hosting 30 divisions, including community divisions. But while thousands will be in attendance, this article is focusing on the elite individual division that will qualify athletes to the 2026 CrossFit Games.
Every Semifinal has its own unique twist on how to qualify so make sure to fully understand each as you prepare for the 2026 CrossFit Games Season.
NORCAL CLASSIC DETAILS
When: May 29-31, 2026
Where: Discovery Park in Sacramento, California
Who: Individuals
Website: https://thenorcalclassic.com/
Instagram: @northern_california_classic
INDIVIDUALS
Athletes Competing: 50 men & 50 women
Qualifying Spots: 2 men & 2 women
Regional Restrictions: No
How to Qualify?
Online Qualifier. 35 spots will be earned through the NCC Online Qualifier. The online qualifier runs January 9-25, 2026. Registration is currently open.
Special Invites. 15 at-large spots will be reserved for athletes who have won select competitions and finish in the top 2,000 worldwide in the 2026 CrossFit Quarterfinals.
One of those competitions was last month’s CRASH Crucible. Colten Mertens and Paige Rodgers both received an invite to compete at the NorCal Classic.Â
Additional Requirements
CrossFit Open. Athletes must finish in the top 25% worldwide in the 2026 CrossFit Open.
CrossFit Quarterfinals. Athletes must finish in the top 2,000 worldwide in the 2026 CrossFit Quarterfinals.
Prize Purse
The NorCal Classic will likely have the largest prize purse of any 2026 CrossFit Semifinal. There is $90,000 in cash prizes for the elite individual division.
HOW TO QUALIFY FOR OTHER SEMIFINALS
French Throwdown
Legends Championship
Magic City Games
Mayhem Classic
Syndicate Crown
