news
25 April 2025
Nine New Riders Qualify for FWT 2026 Through Region 2 Challenger Series
Rising talents and returning veterans secure their spots for the Freeride World Tour by Peak Performance
The 2025 FWT Challenger by Orage Region 2 season has come to an electrifying close, with nine riders earning their place on the 2026 Freeride World Tour (FWT). Following a fierce month-long qualification battle across North American mountains, the final rankings were sealed at the last stop in Arapahoe Basin on April 16.
With the Whitewater IFSA Challenger event canceled in March, athletes had three critical opportunities on U.S. soil to prove themselves. Every run counted, as rookies and former FWT athletes vied for a coveted ticket to the 2026 Tour. The tension was palpable right until the final rankings were announced.
Replay- 2025 Arapahoe Basin IFSA Challenger
A Season of High Stakes and High Performance
From March 24 to April 16, riders gave their all across the Challenger series. With only the top two results counting towards overall qualification, consistency and precision under pressure were essential. Across all categories, competitors showcased not only skill and amplitude but also the mental toughness required to join the elite ranks of freeride.
Ski Men: North American Riders Take Charge
In a stacked Ski Men field, four riders stood out. American Kelly Hilleke dominated the standings with two wins, while fellow countryman Joey Leonardo also clinched a top spot. Canadians Lochlan Harvey and Jack Kolesch fought hard to stay in contention and ultimately secured their places among freeride’s best for the upcoming season.
Qualified Riders – FWT 2026 Ski Men:
Ski Women: McBride and Vietti Break Through
The Ski Women category saw fierce competition, with standout performances across all stops. Wynter McBride (USA) led the charge with two back-to-back podium finishes. The second spot came down to a razor-thin margin, with Agostina Vietti (ARG) edging out Britta Winans (USA) by just 50 points to claim her debut Tour qualification.
Qualified Riders – FWT 2026 Ski Women:
Snowboard Men: Sandblom Shines, Doyle Fights His Way Back
The Snowboard Men category saw a dominant performance from two standout Americans. Shayne Blue Sandblom impressed judges and fans alike with two wins, making a bold statement in his rookie season. Alongside him, Warren Doyle—who competed on the Freeride World Tour in 2024 but did not make the Cut—showed incredible resilience and determination to earn his way back onto the Tour. With two strong second-place finishes, Doyle proved he’s not done yet and is hungry for another shot at freeride’s highest stage.
Qualified Riders – FWT 2026 Snowboard Men:
Snowboard Women: Allport Steps Up
Canada’s Natalie Allport delivered a breakout performance this season in the Snowboard Women category. With two runner-up finishes and a win, she accumulated the necessary points to lock in her qualification. Her consistency and style throughout the series proved her readiness for freeride’s highest level.
Qualified Rider – FWT 2026 Snowboard Women:
The 2026 Roster is Locked In
With the Region 2 Challenger by Orage series wrapped and nine new athletes joining the FWT ranks, anticipation is already building for the 2026 season. These riders have earned their spots through grit, talent, and relentless determination. Whether it’s rookies stepping onto the global stage for the first time or seasoned competitors like Warren Doyle earning their way back, they now prepare to take on the world’s most iconic freeride venues. One thing is certain: FWT 2026 is shaping up to be an unforgettable season.
