Freeride World Tour Baqueira Beret Preview
The FIS Freeride World Tour by Peak Performance kicks off its 2025 season at the breathtaking Baqueira Beret in Spain’s iconic Pyrenees. After a year’s break following two spectacular events in 2022 and 2023, the FWT is back in Val d’Aran, a freeride paradise celebrated for its unique terrain, passionate crowds, and rich cultural heritage.
Based on the weather forecast for the upcoming week, the FWT Organization, in collaboration with the Local Organization Committee, has decided to shift the competition weather window. As a result, Thursday, the 16th, and Friday, the 17th, have been added as potential competition days. Final decision on competition day will be made 48 hours prior to the event.
Baqueira Beret, renowned for its exceptional off-piste choice, reliable snow, and growing freeriding culture, remains a premier destination for world-class freeride competitions. The event will showcase the world’s best freeriders delivering daring runs, fueled by the energy of roaring crowds that embody the spirit of this iconic resort.
Oscar Mandin. Photo by Jeremy Bernard / Freeride World Tour
Weather & Snow Conditions
Baqueira Beret’s season began with excellent snow conditions, highlighted by two significant snowfalls in early December. While warm weather and precipitation initially impacted the fresh snow, they helped establish a strong and stable base for the season.
On Saturday, January 11, 10 cm of fresh snow fell across the area, accompanied by strong NW winds that redistributed snow, creating varied conditions. FWT Guides and Commissioner have been closely monitoring the snowpack and terrain in the region, evaluating options to ensure the best possible conditions for the competition.
Although no additional snowfall is forecast due to a high-pressure system, the strong base and recent snow have set the stage for an exciting event.
Abel Moga. Photo courtesy of Freeride World Tour
Spanish Riders Represent: Abel Moga & Núria Castán Baron
Two prominent Spanish athletes are set to compete at the Baqueira Beret Pro, adding local excitement to the 2025 Freeride World Tour opener. Local skier Abel Moga, who earned an event wildcard, returns to his home mountains to bring his fearless and high-energy style back to the terrain where he secured an unforgettable second-place finish in 2022.
"I’m so excited to receive the wildcard and compete at home. It’s a great chance to show the world the amazing mountains we have here around Baqueira Beret. Having this group of legends here makes me super happy, and I can’t wait to see them all!" —Abel Moga
Núria Castán Barón. Photo courtesy of Freeride World Tour
Joining the roster as a full-time FWT rider is Spanish snowboarder Núria Castán Barón, fresh off an incredible 2024 season where she claimed the vice world champion title with standout victories at the Verbier Pro and Georgia Pro.
"I’m so excited that the Baqueira Beret Pro is coming up! The conditions were already great at the start of the year, and with the recent snowfall, we’re ready to make this event happen. Starting the season in my home country means so much to me—it’s the perfect opportunity to showcase the beauty of Spanish freeride and the incredible terrain of the Pyrenees. We have some amazing faces and venue options here, and I can’t wait to get started and bring visibility to this incredible freeride destination!”—Núria Castán Barón
Abel Moga. Photo by Jeremy Bernard / Freeride World Tour
Shifting Dynamics: New Contenders Emerge
The 2025 season brings dramatic changes to the roster, with notable absences of defending champion Max Hitzig (GER) and FWT 2023 champion Katie Anderson (CAN) due to injuries. Their departures open the door for fresh rivalries and rising stars across all categories.
In the Ski Men, riders like Marcus Goguen (CAN) and Ben Richards (NZL) are poised to make their mark, while in the Ski Women, returning legends Arianna Tricomi (ITA) and Justine Dufour-Lapointe (CAN) will face off against rising talents.
The Snowboard Men category sees freeride icon Victor de Le Rue (FRA) aiming for a record-breaking fourth title, with emerging talents like Timm Schröder (GER) eager to challenge his dominance. Meanwhile, in the Snowboard Women, reigning champion Erin Sauvé (CAN) faces fierce competition from Spain’s own Núria Castán Barón, who will have the home crowd firmly behind her.
Photo courtesy of Freeride World Tour
Don’t Miss The Action
The FWT 2025 promises unparalleled performances, unforgettable moments, and a celebration of the freeride spirit. Fans can catch every moment live at freerideworldtour.com and follow @freerideworldtour on social media for exclusive updates, rider stories, and behind-the-scenes content.