The FIS Freeride World Tour by Peak Performance launches its 2026 season in Baqueira Beret, the renowned resort in Spain’s Val d’Aran and Valls d’Àneu.
As the only Pyrenean stop on the Tour, Baqueira Beret has become a key venue since joining the calendar in 2022. Now in its fifth year on the FWT calendar, the Baqueira Beret Pro by Movistar has consistently showcased the freeride potential of Val d’Aran and Lleida Pyrenees. Thanks to a variety of peaks across the resort, each edition has been held on terrain offering true freeride challenge, most notably the iconic Tuc de Baciver (2,644 m). The venue, known for its technical lines and striking alpine scenery, offers a strong platform to open the season.
The atmosphere at Baqueira Beret has made it a standout location for both athletes and fans, with freeride growing steadily in the region thanks to the resort’s extensive open terrain, covering 2,273 hectares. The event is expected to draw large local support and mark a strong start to this year’s Tour.
Recent snowfall has added to the anticipation, with over 80 cm of fresh snow falling in recent days and more in the forecast. However, avalanche risk in the region is currently high, and the public is advised to exercise caution and follow all safety recommendations when venturing into the backcountry.
Title Defenses And Rivalries Set The Stage in Baqueira Beret
The season opener in Baqueira Beret is shaping up to deliver compelling moments across all four categories:
In Ski Men, the roster includes four former FWT Champions, with close attention on the evolving rivalry between Marcus Goguen (CAN) and Max Hitzig (GER), both known for pushing technical boundaries. Ross Tester (USA), last year’s Baqueira Beret Pro by Movistar winner, will be looking to defend his title.
The Ski Women category features reigning Baqueira Beret champion Justine Dufour-Lapointe (CAN), aiming for another strong start, while challengers like Astrid Cheylus (FRA) and Jenna Keller (SUI) are expected to bring competitive depth.
In Snowboard Men, all eyes will be on Victor de Le Rue (FRA) as he continues his pursuit of a fifth FWT title. With riders like Cody Bramwell (GBR) and Liam Rivera (SUI) looking to make their mark early, the conditions are in place for a tightly contested event.
In Snowboard Women, Noémie Equy (FRA), the 2025 Snowboard Women Champion, returns to Baqueira Beret to defend her win from last year. With several promising new riders in the roster, the potential is high for breakthrough runs and surprises.
Follow The Tour
The 2026 Freeride World Tour by Peak Performance is set to deliver high-level competition across six events. Coverage of the Baqueira Beret Pro by Movistar – including live broadcasts, athlete stories, and behind-the-scenes content – will be available at www.freerideworldtour.com and across @freerideworldtour social media platforms.
