The first-ever FIS Freeride World Champions crowned after a historic day in Andorra
Liam Rivera (SUI), Mia Jones (USA), Ben Richards (NZL) and Zuzanna Witych (POL) made history as they took home the ultimate winning title in freeride
France, USA, and Canada top the nation rankings
Returning to the international freeride circuit for the first time since 2018, Basser Negre in Ordino Arcalís delivered an exceptional competition venue
ORDINO ARCALIS, Andorra – February 3, 2026: The Allianz FIS Freeride World Championships Andorra 2026 by Mammut took place for the first time ever today, Tuesday February 3, following exceptional snowfall that delivered 150 cm of fresh snow, creating outstanding competition conditions in Andorra.
Competition day at Ordino Arcalís delivered a defining moment for the sport, as the first-ever FIS Freeride World Championships unfolded in front of an engaged audience. After a covered start which challenged visibility, the competition went under way with picture perfect conditions. On world-class terrain the Andorran resort provided a spectacular setting for a landmark event that brought together the world’s best freeriders on one stage.
Local and visiting supporters came together to back their respective nations’ freeriders, while uniting in celebration of this defining moment in the sport’s history, creating an atmosphere worthy of a world championship debut. From the scale of the legendary venue; Basser Negre face (2,687 m), to the energy of the crowd, Ordino Arcalís rose to the occasion, hosting a competition that marked a historic new chapter for freeriding.
Snowboard Men : Liam Rivera claims a dominant win for Switzerland
Liam Rivera (SUI) comes home victorious having confidently landed a score of 84.33. The Swiss snowboarder put down a clean and confident line against some challengingly rocky sections, followed by a momentous double feature which secured his place in the history books as the first ever Snowboard Men World Champion.
Victor de Le Rue (FRA) dropped in last, bringing immense pressure and showcasing a clean opening 360. A performance which reminded his audience of his fierce freeride prominence and earned him second place with a score of 80.00. Michael Mawn (USA) demonstrated bold determination and strong board control throughout his run as he re-entered the freeride scene for one single, yet unforgettable performance, awarding him 69.00 and a solid third place in the World Championship standings.
“The snow and conditions were amazing. I’m always nervous going into a competition, and at the top I felt even more nervous today because I really wanted to push myself. My only focus was landing my run without thinking about the result. Becoming the first FIS Freeride World Champion feels like a dream. This victory belongs to my team, my fellow Swiss athletes, and everyone who supported Switzerland.”
Liam Rivera – FIS Freeride World Champion in Snowboard Men category