Soapbox derby to return to town centre for 2026

Totally Stockport BID Company is bringing Krazy Races back to town for 2026, with the UK’s largest touring soapbox derby returning on Sunday, 9 August.

After two hugely successful years in Stockport, the event paused last summer and now promises to return bigger than ever. Totally Stockport working alongside Krazy Races and Stockport Council are well into preparations, with teams, partners and organisers recently coming together at the iconic Stockport Plaza to kick-start this year’s event.

The launch event saw a fantastic turnout from local businesses and schools, including Enigma, Wish Dental, Elevated Knowledge, Robinson’s Brewery, Coffee Block and many more, all taking part in the high-energy race. Demand has already been incredibly strong, with close to 30 teams signed up so far. With capacity capped, organisers expect entries to close by the end of April and are encouraging any remaining interested groups to sign up quickly to avoid missing out.

A key highlight of the event was the announcement of the 2026 headline charity, Signpost for Carers, following a public vote held throughout March.

Signpost for Carers supports unpaid carers of all ages across the borough, providing vital services, advice and wellbeing support to those looking after family members and loved ones. Fundraising will take place throughout race day to support the charity’s important work within the community.

Hannah Richardson from Signpost Stockport for Carers said:

“We’re so excited to be Krazy Races Stockport’s headline charity for 2026. As a local charity supporting unpaid young and adult carers across the borough, opportunities like this make a real difference. This year marks our 40th anniversary, and the event will help us continue delivering vital services to those who need them most. We can’t wait for race day!”

Another major announcement confirmed that Stockport County will host the official Krazy Races Team Scrutineering Event, taking place on Thursday, 16 July 2026. This important pre-race event ensures all soapbox entries meet safety requirements ahead of race day.

Danny Scoffin, Head of Brand & Strategic Development for Krazy Races, said:

“We want to say a huge thank you to our amazing partners at Totally Stockport BID Company for backing us for a third event in the town and helping us pull this event together. The team at the BID are a pleasure to work with, and their continued investment shows a real commitment to bringing exciting, high-quality events into Stockport.

“There’s always been a fantastic response to Krazy Races here, and we’re over the moon to be bringing our brand of KRAZY back for 2026. With strong community support, creative teams already signed up, and our headline charity Signpost Stockport for Carers on board, this year is shaping up to be our biggest and best yet. We are also incredibly grateful for the support and commitment Stockport Council offer in the planning for this fantastic event.”

Shaun Freeman-Jones, Totally Stockport BID Manager said:

“We are incredibly excited to be working with Krazy Races to bring back the Totally Stockport Krazy Race. We have listened to local businesses and visitors who have continued to shout about bringing this event back to town. Not only does this event drive footfall to support town centre businesses, it also gives local businesses the opportunity to work together to build something they can be proud of.” 

Applications for teams are closing soon, with organisers seeking between 20 and 40 local teams to take part. Businesses, schools and community groups can also get involved through sponsorship and partnership opportunities.

Applications to enter a team and sponsorship enquiries are open now via the Krazy Races website.