Sybille Blanjean Withdraws from FIS Freeride World Tour 2025 by Peak Performance Due to Injury; Elisabeth Gerritzen to Step In
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Unexpected roster change brings a former champion back to the Freeride World Tour.
Sybille Blanjean withdraws after sustaining a back injury during training.
Freeride World Tour Champion Elisabeth Gerritzen to return to the FWT as her replacement.
With Gerritzen’s return, the Ski Women Category now features three former FWT World Champions, setting the stage for an electrifying season.
BAQUEIRA BERET, Spain – January 14, 2025:
The FIS Freeride World Tour by Peak Performance confirms that skier Sybille Blanjean (SUI) has withdrawn from the 2025 season due to injury. Elisabeth Gerritzen (SUI), a former Freeride World Champion, will replace her in the Ski Women Category.
Sybille Blanjean Steps Aside
Sybille Blanjean, one of Switzerland’s brightest freeride talents, has been forced to withdraw from the 2025 season following a back injury sustained during training. Known for her technical skills and fearless approach, Blanjean made her mark in 2022 with a 1st-place finish at the Xtreme Verbier, the pinnacle of freeride competitions.
Reflecting on her injury, Blanjean said:
Reflecting on her injury
Just 3.5 weeks ago, I suffered a back injury from a bad landing. As a result, I won’t be able to ski for a few weeks and, unfortunately, will have to step back from competing on the FWT this season. It’s incredibly sad and frustrating not to be able to share another season with all my friends out there, but I’m wishing everyone the best of luck and heaps of fun!
The FWT community extends its heartfelt support and best wishes for a swift recovery.
Elisabeth Gerritzen Returns
Elisabeth Gerritzen, a freeride legend and fellow Verbier rider, steps in as Blanjean’s replacement. Gerritzen is celebrated for her bold style and extraordinary achievements, including her two victories at Xtreme Verbier (2019 and 2021) and her Freeride World Tour Championship title in 2021. Her return to competition is expected to raise the stakes in the Ski Women Category.
commenting on her unexpected return
This last-minute invite was completely unexpected and, of course, bittersweet as it comes due to my friend Sybille being out with an injury. I hope to honor her and make the most of this opportunity. I’m super excited to be back in the start gate with Ari and all the other girls. The level of competition has skyrocketed since I last competed, so it’ll be thrilling to see if I can still be a contender.
With Gerritzen’s addition, the Ski Women Category now features an incredible trio of former Freeride World Tour Champions: Arianna Tricomi (ITA), Justine Dufour-Lapointe (CAN), and Elisabeth Gerritzen (SUI). This extraordinary concentration of talent promises to deliver one of the most competitive and thrilling seasons in FWT history.
The FWT 2025 season is shaping up to be unforgettable, with the world’s top freeriders pushing their limits on some of the most challenging and iconic venues. All eyes will be on this powerhouse lineup as they redefine the boundaries of freeride skiing.
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