So, you think you got what it takes to be an ACL Pro?
To secure an ACL Pro spot in the upcoming season, it’s crucial to absorb this information. Although the 2026 season hasn’t even started yet, if you aspire to attain one of those coveted Pro spots, it’s essential to commence preparations immediately in order to transform your dream into a tangible achievement. Without further ado, let’s delve into the latest updates that require your undivided attention.
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ACL Unveils New Pro Tour Structure for 2025-2026 Season and there are some HUGE changes!
Biggest Updates Yet: Larger Payouts, New Qualification Paths, and Open Standings Return
The American Cornhole League (ACL) has officially announced a major overhaul to its Pro Tour structure for the 2025-2026 season. Based on player feedback, the updates aim to enhance participation, performance, and overall enjoyment for athletes at all levels.
Key Highlights of the New Pro Tour Structure:
- Qualifying and Bracket Play for each event will now take place within the same weekend.
- The season will feature six Signature Events running from January through July 2026.
- Prize money for Signature Events doubles — now offering $100,000 per event (up from $50,000).
- Four of the six Signature Events will count toward Pro Points. Open Points will contribute to Open standings only.
- Open Standings return, allowing Pros and Amateurs to compete together.
- The Shootout format (round-limited) has been eliminated.
Earn a 2025/26 ACL Pro Spot
A total of 695 players will earn a Pro designation through a combination of rankings and state performance:
- Top 100 ACL Pros (automatic qualification)
- ACL Pro Field – 325 players
- Women’s Pro Tour – 90 players
- Senior Pro Tour – 90 players
- Junior Pro Tour – 90 players
Except for the Top 100, all other Pro designations will participate in a Friday morning qualifier at each event to earn a spot in the main Pro Bracket.
- Players who qualify will enter Pro Singles & Pro Doubles.
- Players who do not qualify can still compete in Open Singles & Doubles.
Top 100 ACL Pros – Exclusive Perks:
- Automatic entry into Pro Singles & Pro Doubles at Signature Events.
- Seeded 1 through 100 in all Pro Brackets.
- Entry fees for these events are included in their Pro-level membership.
The ACL’s revamped structure aims to create a more competitive, rewarding, and inclusive Pro Tour that continues to elevate the sport of cornhole for all players.
What’s New for the 2026 Season?
Additional details, and the full 2025/2026 ACL schedule, will be announced at the 2025 ACL World Championships, taking place July 28-August 3, at the Rock Hill Sports & Event Center in Rock Hill, SC.
Check the full ACL Schedule of events here
This is the information we have about ACL pro spots and it comes directly from the ACL. As more information becomes available, we will update it here. This is subject to change and if it does, we will make the appropriate changes here. Be sure to follow us on social media
FAQ
How do you qualify and earn an ACL Pro spot?
Read the article above, it explains everything you need to know to earn an ACL Pro spot
How much is the prize money for the ACL Championship?
Prize money varies each year. For 2024, the 256 ACL pro players are playing for $1 Million Dollars total over the entire season.
