FWT TURNS 16

FREERIDEWORLDTOUR.COM

PHOTOS: FWT / ANDREAS VIGL / REED MATTISON / D DAHER / J BERNARD / HERTHEL COPIA / SAMARMANINO The most exciting global snowsports contest of them all, the Freeride World Tour, is back for its 16th explosive year – FWT23 – with five stops marked on the calendar at awe-inspiring freeride destinations around the globe between January and April 2023. Kicking off at legendary powder and steeps central, Kicking Horse in BC, Canada, the tour moves on to Baqueira Beret iSpain, Andorra’s freeride capital of Ordino Arcalís and then famously snowy Fieberbrunn, Austria, before the annual climax at Verbier, Switzerland, on the infamous Bec des Rosses. Here there’ll be 12,500 points for first place (instead of the usual 10,000) up for grabs. The world’s best freeride skiers and boarders will be back for this iconic series, ready to push the limits of what’s possible in the high mountains in their quest for the sport’s ultimate prize. Those with the nerves – and legs – of steel to score well through all five rounds will ultimately be crowned the champ.

THE VENUES

Kicking Horse Golden | BC | Canada 13-18 January 2023

Known for its champagne powder and long, steep runs, it’s no wonder Kicking Horse attracts riders from all over the globe. The world’s best will have to shake off any early-season nerves and be on point from the very first turn, as these mountains dish up some classic freeride terrain that is unforgiving for the unprepared.

Baqueira Beret, Spain 28 January–2 February 2023

The Tour heads across the pond for the European leg. Baqueira Beret will again play host, following the success of last year’s inaugural event at this epic venue. Consistent snowfall and varied terrain make this world-class resort an ideal test for freeride fanatics.

Ordino Arcalís, Andorra 4–9 February 2023

Here the athletes will have one last chance to rack up the points before the cut. This venue has become a permanent fixture on tour, and for a good reason, with playful terrain offering opportunities for creative freeride lines.

Fieberbrunn, Austria 11–17 March 2023

The first finals event heads to Fieberbrunn, where athletes must navigate the glorious – yet intimidating – Wildseeloder. This mountain is a true test for even the most seasoned pro, and athletes will surely put it all on the line to ensure they have the best shot at the crown.

Xtreme Verbier Switzerland 25 March–2 April 2023

The Grand Finale returns to the home of freeride, the Bec des Rosses at Verbier, Switzerland. Unrideable to most mere mortals, athletes not only tame this beast year after year, but turn it into their playground, consistently combining new line variations with death-defying stunts.

CLASS OF 2023

Forty-three athletes will compete in the FWT23. This world-class spectacle would not be possible without the total commitment of the world’s best freeriders, ready to drop no matter the physical pain or mental pressure. Ready to drop regardless of the conditions Mother Nature dishes up on the day. Ready to drop to satisfy the seemingly unquenchable thirst of their audience, who feed off the next big trick or near-impossible line. Tune in to FWT socials for updates and to keep the stoke high until the action begins!