A Spectacular Showcase of Rising Stars and Freeride’s Next Generation
KAPPL, Austria – January 13, 2025: The 2025 YETI Freeride Junior World Championships by Dynastar delivered an unforgettable day of freeride action, crowning champions across four categories: Ski Men, Ski Women, Snowboard Men, and Snowboard Women. Against the dramatic backdrop of Kappl, Austria, 64 elite junior freeriders from 16 nations put their skills to the test on the iconic Quellspitze face. Known for its steep gradients, blind takeoffs, and varied terrain, the venue pushed competitors to their limits in front of an enthusiastic crowd.
With sunny skies and near-perfect conditions, the athletes tackled a course that demanded technical precision, creativity, and fluidity. Judging criteria included line choice, air and style, control, fluidity, and technique. Each run revealed incredible talent and determination, providing a glimpse into the future of freeriding.
The event also marked a return to Kappl’s renowned Quellspitze face, which commentators described as "super special." The European-style format, with no on-slope inspection, added another layer of complexity, but riders adapted admirably, showcasing why they are the best junior freeriders in the world.
Here’s how the action unfolded across the four categories, with breathtaking performances and inspiring victories:
Snowboard Men
The Snowboard Men’s competition was a thrilling start to the day, with riders showcasing boldness and precision on the demanding Quellspitze terrain. Leading the charge was Kea Chretien (FRA), who cemented his place in freeride history by claiming his third consecutive Freeride Junior World Champion title.
Kea’s run was a masterclass in freeriding, combining technical expertise with fearless line choices. His flawless execution of blind takeoffs and smooth control on steep sections was capped off by a massive final jump that brought the audience to their feet.
“The conditions today were incredible, and I felt great out there. I am happy with my line, and even with a small adjustment, things turned out well. Becoming a three-time champion in Kappl is unbelievable, and I never imagined this at the start—it’s truly special”
said Chretien, reflecting on his historic achievement.
Second place went to Tyler Thomson (USA), who delivered a dynamic run that featured powerful airs and clean transitions. Tyler’s line demonstrated confidence and creativity, earning him well-deserved recognition.
Rounding out the podium was Theodor Salen (NOR) with a stylish and controlled run. Theodor’s ability to navigate technical terrain and execute clean airs earned him high praise from the judges.
The Snowboard Men category set the tone for the day, delivering a perfect mix of intensity and inspiration.
Snowboard Women
The Snowboard Women category showcased incredible talent and progression in freeriding, with riders pushing the boundaries of the sport. Among them, 16-year-old Amélie Martin (FRA) emerged victorious with a fluid and confident run that demonstrated remarkable composure for her age.
Amélie’s line highlighted her technical skill, featuring clean, high-speed exits and steady control through challenging sections. A slight stumble mid-run didn’t detract from her overall performance, which was a testament to her adaptability and determination.
“I felt really happy about my performance today. Even though I had a small fall, I recovered quickly and enjoyed riding down the snow—it was such a fun experience overall,”
said Martin
In second place, Brooke Hansen (NZL) delivered a bold and creative run. Her smooth turns and unique approach to the course showcased her versatility and confidence.
Defending champion Teagan Rilee Turner (USA) secured third place, thrilling spectators with her daring double drop and a huge air into a powder pocket. While her landing wasn’t flawless, her bold approach earned her a place on the podium.
Ski Women
The Ski Women category provided one of the most exciting moments of the day, as competitors tackled the technical Quellspitze face with creativity and finesse. Leading the pack was Hannah Baldwin (USA), who claimed the title. Known for her freestyle background, Baldwin wowed the judges with a bold line featuring a perfectly executed backflip and smooth transitions throughout.
“I'm thrilled to be the world champion. The event was incredible, and I'm excited to move on to the next stage of my career.”
said Baldwin
In second place, Anjah Morgan-Smith (CAN) delivered a powerful run. Her fearless approach included a clean double drop in the midsection, demonstrating both confidence and precision.
Elfy Rouiller (SUI) secured third, showcasing her technical expertise and creativity. Her run featured a stylish grab on a big air and smooth turns in the steeps, earning her a place on the podium.
The Ski Women category highlighted the incredible talent and bright future of freeride skiing.
Ski Men
The Ski Men category closed the day with a breathtaking display of skill and determination. Leading the charge was Noah Peizerat (FRA), who claimed the championship title.
Noah’s run was a masterclass in precision and control, starting with a beautifully executed 360 at the top, followed by seamless transitions through technical sections. His grand finale—a massive and perfectly landed 360—sealed his victory and left the crowd in awe.
“It was an amazing run. My legs were burning at the end, but I executed it just the way I wanted. Becoming a world champion is indescribable—it’s everything I dreamed of, and I’m so stoked!”
said Peizerat
In second place, Leo Flett (SUI) impressed judges with his tactical execution and creative line-scoping. Leo’s ability to combine technical airs with fluid skiing earned him a well-deserved podium finish.
Third place went to Mika Rolshoven (GER), who delivered a smart and controlled run. Overcoming past injuries, Mika demonstrated resilience and skill, linking clean doubles and maintaining fluidity throughout.
The Ski Men category epitomized the spirit of freeride, with athletes pushing boundaries and delivering unforgettable performances.
See You in 2026!
As the curtain falls on this year’s event, the freeride community celebrates a new generation of talent. With spectacular runs and inspiring moments, the 2025 YETI Freeride Junior World Championships by Dynastar set the bar high for the future of freeride sports.
For full results, photos, and highlights, visit https://www.freerideworldtour.com/junior/ and follow us on social media @fwtjunior.
Save the date for 2026—we’ll see you next year for another unforgettable chapter of junior freeride excellence!
About the FWT
FWT Management SA is based in Verbier, 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, in 2008, it turned this single competition into a prestigious series of worldwide events, called 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. Since December 2022, FWT is part of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS). Discover more at www.freerideworldtour.com
Contact Information
Marianna Dallabetta Armani
Communication Manager
marianna@freerideworldtour.com
+39 392 3254391
