In 2005, the first Cheerleading Worlds competition in Orlando, Florida, welcomed 14 teams. Now, over 10,500 athletes from 25 nations come together to compete in Florida, and get a chance to be a world champion. Cheerleading Worlds, or simply Worlds, has become the most important and ultimate end-of-season event, spanning three days in either April or May.
Run by the non-profit organization, United States All Star Federation (USASF), this international and prestigious competition draws crowds and high media attention from fans, who have dreamed of competing or have competed at Worlds.
A part of the anticipation and excitement is that teams cannot participate unless they receive a bid. A bid is a judge’s award given at previous competitions over the season, which unlocks a chance to compete. Bids vary; for example, there are paid bids, when a competition pays for athletes to attend the competition. A different type of bid is an at-large bid, where athletes earn an invitation, but no financial compensation.
2025 is no different; many bids are given for Worlds. Teams prepare all season to get the chance to be the best, while representing the gym they cheer for, and the team they are a part of.
Worlds has changed the cheer world. Wins at Worlds indicate the level teams have reached. Many cheerleaders go to social media to show their number of wins to the public. For instance, Gabi Fuller, a five-time world champion, proudly showcases this in her Instagram bio.
In 2024, CheerForce Golden girls with FloCheer became first-time world champions. For many, winning the championship is a day full of emotion. “Then I fell to the floor, and we lost our minds,” said Jess Montoya, an athlete of Golden Girls.
She remembers the excitement she felt when her team placed first. “We are thrilled to get a globe again,” Montoya said. A globe is an award at Worlds given to the top three highest scoring teams in each division, which is an accomplishment itself.
This year, Worlds take place from April 25 to 28, with over 500 teams competing. Some notable teams competing this year include Senior Elite, Top Gun Large Coed, XXS, Double O and more. The competition is held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and is streamed on FloCheer, a site dedicated to the championship.
For now, many are waiting for the upcoming world championship and are excited to watch all the talented athletes compete for the number one spot.
