World-class freeriders set to take on Val Thorens’ high-altitude terrain during the weather window from January 24 to 29, 2026
After a thrilling season opener, the FWT heads to the French Alps for the Val Thorens Pro
Weather window: January 24–29, 2026
Léo Slemett returns as an Event Wildcard
VAL THORENS, France – January 19, 2026: Following a thrilling season opener in Spain, the FIS Freeride World Tour by Peak Performance continues its 2026 campaign with the Val Thorens Pro, scheduled during a weather window from January 24 to 29, 2026. This marks the Tour’s return to Val Thorens for the second consecutive year and signals the revival of elite freeride competition on French soil after a long absence.
Val Thorens, located in the heart of Les 3 Vallées, the world’s largest ski area, has once again been named World’s Best Ski Resort by the World Ski Awards, further cementing its reputation as a world-class mountain destination. Its towering altitude of 2,300 meters, coupled with steep couloirs and dynamic faces, offers the perfect canvas for bold freeride performances.
The 2025 edition of the Val Thorens Pro delivered the deepest powder day of the season, with over 70cm of fresh snow creating dream conditions. The stage is now set for another epic contest, with organizers and athletes eyeing the iconic Cime Caron (3,200m) as a potential venue. Known for its technical terrain, alpine exposure, and direct visibility from the village, Cime Caron represents the ultimate freeride arena. And if conditions align, could host one of the most dramatic competitions of the season.
Léo Slemett returns: five FWT Champions set for a clash of titans
Among the most anticipated storylines of this stop is the return of Léo Slemett (FRA), who will compete as an Event Wildcard, making a special one-off appearance in the Ski Men category. The French freeride icon, who last appeared on the Tour in 2022, has since focused on personal film projects, including an emotional documentary released last fall. Now fully recovered from injury and back on snow, Slemett will look to test himself once again on the biggest stage.
“I'm thrilled to be back in the mix for another dance. The new generation has raised the bar since I left the Tour, and I’m looking forward to going head-to-head with such talented riders.”
His participation marks a historic moment for the Tour: for the first time ever, five FWT Champions will compete in the Ski Men category at a single event. It’s a true clash of titans, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown in Val Thorens.
French riders take the stage at home
Val Thorens has long been a breeding ground for freeride talent, and this year’s roster includes five French riders with deep ties to the resort.
In Snowboard Men, Victor de Le Rue (FRA), the four-time FWT Champion and 2025 titleholder, returns to compete on home snow. After an uncharacteristically quiet result in the season opener, de Le Rue will be looking to rebound in front of a passionate local crowd.
“I'm really happy to be back home for this competition. It's a great opportunity to represent Les Belleville, and just looking at the roster shows how much talent this valley has. Last year, Enzo took the win with an incredible run, and this year, I’d love to follow in his footsteps. The first stop set the tone: the level is amazing this season, and I’m super excited because I know the runs are going to be crazier than ever”
Victor de Le Rue, four-time FWT Champion and 2025 titleholder
In the Snowboard Women category, Noémie Equy (FRA), also a reigning FWT Champion, is determined to secure a win on her home mountain, a title that eluded her last year.
“I'm really looking forward to this second stop, which will take place at home. Before winning my title last year, my first goal was already to win here in Val Thorens. Last season, I came close to victory. This year, I'm truly dreaming of taking the win and sharing that moment with my people.”
Noémie Equy, 2025 FWT Snowboard Women Champion
Enzo Nilo (FRA), who won the Val Thorens Pro in 2025, returns to defend his title with the full backing of the local community. Joining him are rookie siblings Lou Barin (FRA) and César Barin (FRA), both of whom made their FWT debut in Baqueira. Lou Barin made an immediate impression by claiming third place in Ski Women, while César Barin placed fifth in Snowboard Men, a promising start for the next generation of French freeriders.
Val Thorens Pro: the season’s proving ground
The 2026 season launched with the Baqueira Beret Pro by Movistar, where tight podiums and breakout performances set the tone for what promises to be a highly competitive year. With every rider now having one event under their belt, Val Thorens becomes the real proving ground, where consistency and adaptation will be tested.
In Ski Men, Ben Richards (NZL) leads the rankings after a powerful run that included a clean Lincoln Loop. Just behind him are Toby Rafford (USA) and Wei-Tien Ho (CAN), with less than a point separating the top three, making this one of the most hotly contested categories in years.
In Ski Women, Justine Dufour-Lapointe (CAN) reminded everyone why she’s the reigning FWT Champion with a dominant performance on technical terrain. She’s followed by rising French riders Zoé Delzoppo and Lou Barin, both of whom are showing they can challenge the world’s best.
The Snowboard Men category saw Liam Rivera (SUI) take the top spot in Spain with a powerful and fluid line. Close behind is French rookie Sacha Balicco, who impressed with his control and confidence and who will certainly benefit from the support of the home crowd in Val Thorens.
In Snowboard Women, American rookie Mia Jones took a commanding win in Baqueira, while Anna Martinez (FRA) placed second and is poised to continue her momentum. Meanwhile, all eyes will be on Noémie Equy, who has the experience and local knowledge to make a strong push for the win she narrowly missed last season.
Watch it live
The Val Thorens Pro will take place during the weather window of January 24–29, 2026, with the exact competition day selected based on safety and snow conditions. Fans around the world can watch the event live at www.freerideworldtour.com, and follow exclusive athlete stories, highlights, and updates across FWT’s social media platforms at @freerideworldtour.
