The countdown to the first edition of the Allianz FIS Freeride World Championships Andorra 2026 by Mammut—the first ever under the auspices of the FIS—has ended. The opening ceremony held at Illa Carlemany marked the official kick-off of one of the winter's key events, with all 65 riders taking part in the competition present, each receiving a special bib for the event in their countries’ colors. Also in attendance was Michel Vion, Secretary General of the International Ski Federation (FIS), one of the organization’s highest authorities worldwide. Vion himself delivered a speech at the ceremony, along with Andorra’s Minister of Tourism and Commerce, Jordi Torres; Ordino Councilor Jordi Serracanta; and the CEO of the FIS Freeride World Tour, Nicholas Hale-Woods.

The event featured performances from the Magic Glem entertainment team and the Esbart de les Valls del Nord, showcasing the Principality’s folkloric side. Afterwards, all participants paraded with their national flags in a very moving moment for everyone. To the audience’s surprise, a flash mob was performed, demonstrating the country's involvement, and the evening concluded with an autograph session by the riders.

Press Presentation

The presentation for the Allianz FIS Freeride World Championship Andorra 2026 by Mammut took place this morning, with Jordi Torres, Jordi Serracanta, Nicolas Hale-Woods, the manager of the Andorran Ski Federation Carlos Visa, World Championship Organizing Committee Director David Ledesma, and Andorran rider Joan Aracil participating.

All of them highlighted the historic milestone of hosting this event. “We’ll have the chance to make history again in the world of skiing, as these are the first Freeride World Championships, and the first world champions of a discipline that aims for the Olympics in 203 will be crowned at Ordino Arcalís,” said David Ledesma. Jordi Torres added, “When we were offered the chance to host the first FIS Freeride World Championships, we didn’t hesitate. This opportunity means much more than just hosting a sporting event: it’s an international platform that bolsters Andorra’s image as a country capable of organizing world-class sporting events.” Likewise, Jordi Serracanta pointed out, “For us, it’s recognition of the work we’ve done in recent years at Ordino Arcalís with the Freeride World Tour competitions and our strong commitment to this discipline.”

During the presentation, Nicolas Hale-Woods emphasized that these first World Championships represent a milestone for the discipline, a sport growing in international reach and continually gaining new athletes and fans, with the ambition of becoming an Olympic sport soon. “It’s a unique moment for Freeride,” he noted.

Awaiting the Weather Forecast

The weather window for the competition has been set between February 1 and 6, but the first day, this Sunday, February 1, has already been ruled out as a competition date because the weather forecast does not predict optimal conditions for the event, as Hale-Woods explained. Therefore, an exact date offering maximum safety is still pending, with current thoughts turning to holding the competition as early as next Tuesday or Wednesday. It’s worth remembering that the World Championships will consist of a single day of competition, with all riders in the four categories making just one run in their bid to be crowned the first world champions of the discipline.

Additionally, the FIS FWT CEO said that they are still evaluating possible areas for the competition, with Baser Negre and Smooty’s Garden as the most likely options. However, the final decision will be made in the coming hours.

Joan Aracil, the Andorran Representative

The Principality’s only rider competing in the World Championships, Joan Aracil, said this morning: “It’s incredible for me to be able to participate in the World Championships here in Andorra, especially because they are the first.” Regarding his aims for the competition, Aracil stated, “I’m going in with high expectations; any athlete competing at a high level wants to win, but we’ll see how the run goes—in any case, I’m going to go for it.”

Similarly, Carles Visa commented, “It’s tough to set a specific goal for a World Championship, but we trust all the work and preparation Joan has done. We know if he skis to his ability, we’ll get a good result.” He also added, “This event consolidates our structure within the FIS.”

Event Village and a Festive Atmosphere

While the final date is being settled, the Event Village, located in the Hortell area of Ordino Arcalís, will be the epicenter of the festive and participatory atmosphere on January 31 and February 1. Among the activities planned, there will be ski tests both days with the top brands on the market, and various entertainment options for the public. Of note will be the riders’ signing session tomorrow, Saturday the 31st, as they enjoy the ambiance and mingle with fans before the big day; as well as a high-line show by Moisés Castro, one of the stars of the film NIX, we are snow people, famous for his spectacular high-altitude crossings, such as over the Lascar volcano crater at 5,600 meters. Additionally, Hortell will host the podium celebrations for the winners, who will be declared the first world champions in the history of freeride.

The Kokoi terrace, at the foot of the Tristaina cable car, will also provide entertainment with a special atmosphere, and is the chosen venue for the big final party. Furthermore, the Ordino village après-ski spot, Cota 1,300, will host the official World Championships party tomorrow evening.