The FWT Challenger by Orage 2025 Calendar is here: the Final Step to Earn a Sport on the FWT 2026

The Freeride World Tour is thrilled to reveal the FWT Challenger by Orage 2025 calendar, featuring nine exhilarating stops across two regions. This series serves as the final proving ground for athletes aspiring to join the elite ranks of the FWT 2026, offering a global platform to showcase emerging talent in freeride skiing and snowboarding.

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In a strategic move to enhance competition and sustainability, the FWT has introduced a new format for the Challenger Series:

• Region 1 (Europe-Asia-Oceania): Kicking off in January 2025, this region will host six stops. Riders’ top four results will count toward their rankings.
• Region 2 (Americas): Featuring three stops in March, organised by IFSA, this region continues to offer high-level freeride action in premier North American venues.

The FWT Challenger by Orage will see approximately 60–80 athletes competing in each Region. These athletes include top performers from the FWT and IFSA Qualifier series, as well as FWT Pro riders seeking redemption after not making the Cut on the FWT 2024.

For these riders, the stakes are high, as only the best will secure a spot on the FWT 2026. The top 4 Ski Men, top 2 Ski Women, top 2 Snowboard Men, and top 1 Snowboard Woman from each Region will earn their place. Additionally, one extra Snowboard Woman might be selected from either region at the discretion of the Organization.

This restructured format builds a robust second tier of freeride competition, providing a consistent pathway for emerging athletes to ascend to the FWT Pro level.

FWT Challenger by Orage 2025 Calendar Region 1 (Europe-Asia-Oceania):

The Challenger Series will begin in France at a yet-to-be-confirmed resort. As a destination steeped in freeride culture, France consistently delivers some of the most dynamic terrain in the Alps. This opening event promises to set the tone for a thrilling season, with steep descents, technical features, and big-mountain challenges awaiting the competitors.

Monterosa Freeride Paradise, Italy (Jan 30–Feb 2):

Nestled in the shadows of Monte Rosa, the Alps’ second-highest peak, Monterosa Ski is a freerider’s dream. This vast terrain offers an intricate network of high-altitude ridges, deep bowls, and technical chutes. Known for its reliable snowfall and dramatic alpine vistas, Monterosa will serve as a critical early test for riders eager to establish their ranking.

Open Faces Silvretta-Montafon, Austria (Feb 22–25)-NEW:

Making its FWT Challenger by Orage debut, Silvretta-Montafon in Vorarlberg is a freeride haven with terrain as diverse as it is challenging. From exposed ridgelines to wide, untouched faces, the resort is renowned for its rugged beauty. Competitors will face steep drops and tight lines, set against the backdrop of one of Austria’s most picturesque valleys.

Nendaz Freeride, Switzerland (Mar 1–5)-COMING BACK:

Returning to the Challenger Series, Nendaz lies in the heart of the 4 Vallées, Switzerland’s largest ski domain. With its proximity to Mont Fort and famed big-mountain terrain, Nendaz offers riders a playground of endless possibilities. Steep faces, intricate lines, and ever-changing snow conditions will force competitors to adapt on the fly, making this a critical event on the Challenger circuit.

X Over Ride Kitzsteinhorn, Austria (Mar 15–18):

Located in the Salzburg Alps, Kitzsteinhorn is known for its glacier setting, ensuring excellent snow conditions throughout the season. The freeride terrain is a blend of technical couloirs, open powder slopes, and natural features that demand both precision and boldness. With breathtaking views from its 3,000-meter peaks, Kitzsteinhorn provides the ultimate freeride arena for athletes to showcase their versatility and skill.

Open Faces Obertauern, Austria (Mar 23–26):

Making its first appearance in the FWT Challenger by Orage last year, Obertauern brought a fresh energy to the Series. Renowned for its consistent snowpack and varied terrain, the resort offers a unique mix of open faces, playful features, and steep drop-offs. As the final stop in Region 1, this event will be pivotal for athletes looking to secure their spot in the FWT Pro. The dramatic landscapes and challenging conditions are sure to deliver season-defining performances.

Region 2 (Americas):

Region 2 will feature three events in March organised by IFSA, with venues expected to include premier locations. These stops will bring high-stakes freeride action to North America’s most iconic mountains. Full details will be announced soon.

TBC - stop 1

The first stop in Region 2 is yet to be confirmed. Updates on the location and details of this stop will be announced soon, promising a venue worthy of the Challenger Series’ high standards.

IFSA Kirkwood, California, USA (March 29–31):

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, Kirkwood is renowned for its challenging terrain and consistent snowfall. The resort offers steep chutes, expansive bowls, and technical ridgelines, providing a formidable arena for competitors. Athletes can anticipate navigating Kirkwood's rugged landscape, testing their skills against its natural features and deep snowpack.

IFSA Arapahoe Basin, Colorado, USA (April 16–18):

Perched high in the Rockies, Arapahoe Basin is celebrated for its high-altitude skiing and technical terrain. The resort features steep faces, narrow gullies, and challenging drops, with areas like the East Wall and Steep Gullies offering thrilling runs. Competitors will face demanding lines set against the panoramic backdrop of the Continental Divide, making for an exhilarating and picturesque competition.