New and Returning Talent: Season Wildcards Bring Unpredictability to FIS Freeride World Tour by Peak Performance 2025

New faces, returning stars, and seasoned champions set to deliver edge-of-your-seat action in the six-stop FWT 2025 season.

12 season wildcards, including past champions and up-and-coming talent, to compete in the FWT 2025.

Athletes making comebacks from injury and rising stars with standout performances are poised to shake up the rankings.

Wildcards across ski and snowboard categories promise thrilling action at every Tour’s Stop.

VERBIER, Switzerland – October 24, 2024: The FIS Freeride World Tour 2025 by Peak Performance is raising the stakes with this year’s season wildcards, bringing a fresh wave of fierce competition to the mix. Featuring 12 riders, including freeride legends, past champions, and rising stars, these athletes are fully integrated into the rankings system and are sure to shake up the field at every Stop. Some are returning from injury, determined to reclaim their place, while others have earned their spot through extraordinary achievements and standout performances. This exciting blend of perseverance and excellence makes them valuable additions to the roster, ensuring FWT 2025 will deliver some of the most intense competition in the sport’s history. Now ready to challenge the world’s best freeriders, these wildcards promise to make every event more thrilling and the outcomes harder to predict.

Ski Men

The Ski Men’s category for FWT 2025 promises an electrifying lineup of wildcards. Ross Tester (USA) returns with his trademark consistency and versatility, a proven podium contender eager to make his mark again. Simon Perraudin (SUI), back stronger after injury, brings precision and determination as he looks to reclaim his spot among the top competitors. WeiTien Ho (CAN), returning after some extraordinary action on last year’s Tour, has already proven himself as part of the next generation of riders pushing the sport’s boundaries. Edvin Olsson (SWE), making his FWT debut, is set to add his own unique style to the mix, blending creativity and control. Together, these athletes bring diverse skills and perspectives that will elevate the competition and ensure thrilling action at every stop. Let’s dive deeper into their stories and what they bring to FWT 2025.

Ross Tester (USA)

Ross Tester made an instant impact on the Freeride World Tour, with multiple podium finishes and two big wins. Growing up with a passion for skiing, he sharpened his skills in a local freeride club, combining speed with technical tricks. In 2021, he earned the "Rookie of the Year" title and finished 2nd overall, followed by a 3rd overall place finish in 2022, making him one of the top competitors on the Tour. Now, as a Season Wildcard for FWT 2025, Ross is ready to push himself and go even further:

"It’s an honor to receive a wildcard. I’m really excited to have another shot at the FWT circuit and show the best skiing I possibly can. What I’m most looking forward to this season is hitting some epic lines at both new and classic Stops. I’m also stoked to hang with the other riders and see what everyone brings this year. The fields are stacked, and it’s going to be an exciting season!”

Ross Tester, Season Wildcard for FWT 2025

Simon Perraudin (SUI)

Hailing from Verbier, Simon Perraudin made a strong debut on the Freeride World Tour, landing three top-10 finishes. Balancing his studies in computer science with competitive skiing, Simon has proven himself a talented freerider despite the demands off the mountain. However, his 2024 season was cut short by injury. Now, with a 2025 Season Wildcard, he’s ready to make a full comeback:

"I’m super excited about this wildcard and really grateful for the chance to compete again. I couldn’t show my skiing last year, so I’m ready to give it my all this season!"

Simon Perraudin, Season Wildcard for FWT 2025

WeiTien Ho (CAN)

WeiTien Ho, a two-time Canadian National Champion in enduro mountain biking, brings his impressive athleticism from Whistler, British Columbia, to the freeride scene. After showcasing some exciting performances on last year’s tour, he’s back with a Season Wildcard for 2025. Known for pushing the limits, WeiTien is part of the new wave of riders pushing the sport forward.

“I am humbled by this opportunity and excited to have another shot on tour. I honestly have some mixed feelings about receiving a wildcard, but I am looking forward to proving myself out there. Also, just really hyped to compete alongside the insane level of talent on tour, and to be apart of the show.”

WeiTien Ho, Season Wildcard for FWT 2025

Edvin Olsson (SWE)

Edvin Olsson, a Swedish freeride skier from Åre, is making his debut on the Freeride World Tour in 2025. Growing up near the slopes, Edvin was inspired by his brother and freeride legends like Candide Thovex, shaping his creative and fluid skiing style. Known for his calm approach and focus on risk management, he dreams of achieving standout results on the Tour this season.

"Competing on the FWT is a dream come true, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity."

Edvin Olsson, Season Wildcard for FWT 2025

Ski Women

The Ski Women’s category for FWT 2025 is set to showcase a thrilling mix of wildcards. Justine Dufour-Lapointe (CAN), the reigning FWT 2023 World Champion and double Olympic medalist in moguls skiing, returns with her elite skills. Arianna Tricomi (ITA), a three-time FWT Champion, brings her vast freeride experience back to the Tour. Taylor Dobyns (USA), eager for redemption after an injury-shortened season, is ready to prove herself, while Molly Armanino (USA), Vice World Champion in 2023, rounds out this formidable lineup. Together, these wildcards are sure to elevate the competition, pushing the limits and adding unpredictability to every stop on the Tour.

Let’s dive into their profiles to see what they bring to FWT 2025.

Justine Dufour-Lapointe (CAN)

Justine Dufour-Lapointe, from Montreal, Canada, is the youngest of the famous Dufour-Lapointe sisters. Justine’s Olympic career is highlighted by a gold medal in 2014 and a silver in 2018. Transitioning to freeride, she made an immediate impact by winning the FWT World Champion title in her rookie season in 2023, leveraging her freestyle expertise to dominate the field. Returning as a wildcard for FWT25, Justine is ready to push herself on the mountains once again:

"I'm super excited to be back on the Tour this year. I really missed it last season, and it feels like a privilege to compete again. Being on the best mountains, pushing myself to deliver my best run, and feeling that adrenaline is incredible. I’m proud of the hard work I’ve put in, and I can’t wait to show it!"

Justine Dufour-Lapointe, Season Wildcard for FWT 2025

Arianna Tricomi (ITA)

Born in Alta Badia, Italy, Arianna Tricomi has been passionate about skiing since childhood. After starting in alpine and freestyle skiing, she debuted on the Freeride World Tour in 2016 and went on to win three consecutive World Champion titles by 2020. Known for her versatility and fearless approach to big mountain lines, Arianna has become one of the most dominant figures in freeride. Returning for FWT 2025, she’s ready to take on new challenges and push her limits once again:

“I’m super stoked to be back on the Tour next year! The thrill of standing in the start gate, the adrenaline of competing at new locations, and pushing myself against the new generation of freeriders is what I’m most looking forward to. Can’t wait to embrace the vibes and energy that this Tour always brings.”

Arianna Tricomi, Season Wildcard for FWT 2025

Taylor Dobyns (USA)

Taylor Dobyns began her journey in alpine ski racing in Killington, Vermont, before transitioning to freeride while studying at the University of Denver. During law school, she helped found the university's freeride team, all while competing on the FWT Qualifier circuit. Unfortunately, her 2024 season was cut short by an injury at the FWT Verbier Pro. Now returning with a season wildcard in 2025, Taylor is eager to make her comeback and prove herself on the Pro circuit.

"What I’m looking forward to most this season is skiing some of the biggest faces in the world with the best skiers in the world."

Taylor Dobyns, Season Wildcard for FWT 2025

Molly Armanino (USA)

Molly Armanino earned a wildcard for the FWT in 2023 and made an immediate impact, finishing as Vice World Champion in her rookie season. Known for her incredible creativity in line choices and fearlessly skiing where others won’t, her fierce style led to two podium finishes in 2023, with 2nd place in both Ordino Arcalís Pro and Baqueira Beret Pro. She continued to impress in 2024, claiming another podium at the Verbier Pro. Returning for FWT 2025, Molly is ready to seize her second chance on the Tour:

"I was nervous about accepting the wildcard, but I’m stoked to be able to travel with freeride legends again. I’m excited for this second chance and hope to land on my feet!"

Molly Armanino, Season Wildcard for FWT 2025

Snowboard Men

The Snowboard Men’s category for FWT 2025 is set to see a major shake-up with two standout wildcards. Cody Bramwell (GBR), known for his fierce determination, returns after a strong performance in past seasons. Camille Armand (FRA), returns after a spectacular victory at the FWT Kicking Horse Golden BC Pro in 2022, ready to reclaim his place among the top riders. These wildcards are set to raise the level of competition, bringing their own unique styles and pushing the limits of freeriding. Let’s take a closer look at what they’ll contribute to FWT 2025.

Cody Bramwell (GBR)

Cody Bramwell, a multi-national athlete, claimed a remarkable victory at the FWT Ordino Arcalís Pro in 2021 with a flawless run. In 2022, he showcased his full potential, taking second place at Fieberbrunn and finishing 3rd overall both in 2021 and 2022. After narrowly missing the podium in Georgia last season and not making the Cut, Cody returns with a wildcard, determined to make his mark. Known for his consistency and talent, he's ready to prove he deserves his spot on the Tour and push the boundaries in his category.

"I’m so hyped to see everyone again and put together some runs I can be proud of. Last year’s performance has been stuck in my head, and it’s really been bothering me, so I’m coming back strong to prove I belong here. I’m especially excited about having five comps before the cut. It’s a great decision by the Tour, and it’s going to push everyone to deliver some crazy runs!”

Cody Bramwell, Season Wildcard for FWT 2025

Camille Armand (FRA)

Camille Armand began snowboarding in Chamonix Mont-Blanc and transitioned into freeride and backcountry at eighteen, drawn by the freedom of the sport. His breakthrough on the Freeride World Tour came in 2016, with a 3rd place finish at the FWT Andorra. Camille’s momentum continued, earning 4th overall in 2021, highlighted by a strong 2nd place at the FWT Fieberbrunn Pro. His crowning moment came in 2022 with a spectacular victory at the FWT Kicking Horse Golden BC Pro, securing him 2nd place overall for the season. Now returning with a wildcard, Camille is ready to showcase his experience, shake up the competition, and make his mark in the Snowboard Men category once again.

"Receiving the wildcard means a lot—I’m grateful to be invited back for this new season and excited about the new competition format with more stops. It’ll be great to reunite with the FWT family. My goal is clear: I came close to winning the world champion title in 2022, and this year, I’m aiming for the top while enjoying every moment on my board. I’m especially looking forward to the new stops, particularly Val Thorens in France and the one in Georgia. It’s been a while since we had an event in France, so I’m really motivated to ride the faces of Val Thorens."

Camille Armand, Season Wildcard for FWT 2025

Snowboard Women

The Snowboard Women’s category for FWT 2025 gains a boost with standout wildcards. Katie Anderson (CAN), FWT 2023 World Champion and former Rookie of the Year, returns after a knee injury, ready to reclaim her spot as a top contender. Michaela Davis-Meehan (AUS), known for her creativity and powerful riding, brings her determination after finishing 3rd in the 2024 FWT Challengers Region 2.

These wildcards add depth and unpredictability, pushing the competition to new heights at every stop. Let’s dive into their profiles and see what they bring to the Tour.

Katie Anderson (CAN)

Katie Anderson began her athletic journey as a skier, but at the age of six, she quickly transitioned to snowboarding. Her passion led her to compete in boardercross races, eventually earning her a spot on the BC team. After making a name for herself on the snowboard cross World Cup circuit, Katie shifted her focus to freeride, where she was named FWT Rookie of the Year in 2020. Since then, she’s been a regular on the podium, and in 2023, she claimed the FWT World Champion title. Now, after recovering from a knee injury, Katie is ready to return to competition for FWT 2025.

"What I am most looking forward to this season is getting back on snow, and back to competition! A year off with the knee injury felt like forever, and I’ve been working hard to get back. I can’t wait to see everyone on tour again and push myself to deliver a run I’m truly proud of!"

Katie Anderson, Season Wildcard for FWT 2025

Michaela Davis-Meehan (AUS)

Michaela Davis-Meehan has been a trailblazer in snowboarding, overcoming a serious back injury in 2010 to become a top competitor on the Freeride World Tour. Starting out in slopestyle at just eight years old, she went on to represent Australia internationally. In 2020, Michaela made history by winning the FWT Ordino Arcalís Pro, becoming the first Australian to claim victory in freeride. Now returning as a season wildcard for FWT 2025, Michaela is ready to make her mark once again:

"I'm most excited for the Georgia stop! It's been on my bucket list to ride there for so many years, I can't believe it's finally happening!"

Michaela Davis-Meehan, Season Wildcard for FWT 2025

Event Wildcard

Abel Moga (SPA)

A wildcard entry has been confirmed for FWT Baqueira Beret Pro, with Spanish freeride skier Abel Moga set to compete. Known for his fearless style, Abel made an unforgettable debut on the Freeride World Tour in 2022 at his home resort, Baqueira Beret, finishing second. His daring style has earned him a reputation as a rider who pushes the limits. Following in the footsteps of freeride legend Aymar Navarro, Abel’s creativity and bold approach make him one to watch at the FWT Baqueira Beret Pro, January 18-23, 2025.

"Receiving an event wildcard means a lot to me, and I’m really happy about it. It shows that the FWT family wants me back, so I’ll give it my best.I’m excited to feel that same energy in Baqueira as I did three years ago when I came second. The Baciver is an awesome place for a contest, and the crowd will be fired up. Hopefully, we’ll have great snow and put on an amazing show."

Abel Moga, Event Wildcard for FWT Baqueira Beret Pro 2025

Be sure to follow these athletes and all the action throughout the 2025 season on www.freerideworldtour.com and across FWT’s social media channels for live updates and exclusive content from all six FWT events. Stay connected by subscribing to the FWT newsletter and never miss out on the latest news, athlete insights, and thrilling moments as they unfold.

About the FWT

FWT Management SA is based in Lausanne, Switzerland, and has been organizing premier sports events globally in mountain resorts since 1996. The company founded the Xtreme Verbier, an iconic event in freeride skiing and snowboarding, and turned this single competition into a prestigious series of worldwide events in 2008, the Freeride World Tour (FWT). The company has since grown to include multiple competition series that fall under the FWT brand – including FWT Challenger, FWT Qualifier and FWT Junior – with events across all formats taking place in Europe, North America, South America and Oceania.

About Peak Performance

Born in the Scandinavian mountains out of a love for skiing in remote, untouched terrain, our passion for adventure and nature runs deep. Our purpose is simple: we bring the freeride spirit to the world. As for our products, they all have the same purpose – empower the freedom to be adventurous and follow your own line. Whether it be horizontally or vertically, on skis, by bike, or on foot, they offer a balance of style and performance. Our Scandinavian heritage is ever present and our commitment to doing better things in a better way is our never-ending responsibility. For more information, please visit www.peakperformance.com.

Contact Information

Marianna Dallabetta Armani - Communication Manager

marianna@freerideworldtour.com

+39 392 3254391