Andorra Ski Chief Confident FIS Changes Boost World Champs Bid

Pepi Pintat, president of the Andorran Ski Federation (FAE), voiced confidence that recent shifts at the International Ski Federation (FIS)—including the election of Liechtenstein's Alexander Ospelt as president and Patrick Toussaint's return to the FIS Council—could strengthen Andorra's bid to host the Alpine World Ski Championships. In remarks before the 2025-2026 Ski Gala on Wednesday, Pintat detailed his three-day lobbying push at the FIS Congress in Belgrade, where he helped secure Toussaint's council seat and said Andorra's candidacy drew more support than Spain's.

Pintat stressed the bid's political nature, noting that despite endorsements from athletes at the Soldeu World Cup, "athletes don't have a vote." He maintains strong ties with both Ospelt and the previous president but stopped short of guarantees, adding, "We'll have to wait and see what happens... I can't do more." Hosting the Worlds remains his key ambition before stepping down: "That's what I want to win the Worlds and then step down."

Pintat also highlighted financial strains on Andorran skiing amid solid results and a strong talent pipeline. Rising costs for travel, fuel, and snow access hinder youth development, he said, despite outperforming larger nations. "With the budget we have—which is minimal, a pittance—we're ahead of Spain in results." The FAE receives 670,833.33 euros from the Sports Ministry for 2026, its largest allocation, but relies heavily on private sponsors without fiscal benefits like those in a patronage law. Pintat noted requests for more government aid without excessive pressure.

The Gala de l’Esquí at Sala Prat del Roure in Escaldes-Engordany brought together athletes, clubs, officials, and sponsors to honour the season. It began with FAE Secretary General Lluís Ruiz thanking participants, families, institutions, and backers for their efforts, urging parents to support young skiers. A tribute to late coach Gabriela Andrade, who shaped generations of Andorran skiers, drew extended applause.

Awards covered youth cups including Copa Ford U10, Copa Burger King U12, Copa Popeyes U14 and U16, and the new Copa Creand for FIS and promotional races. National championships in cross-country, freestyle, freeride, and snowboarding were recognised, alongside the best school award to Escola Andorrana de Primera Ensenyança de la Massana, a retirement tribute to alpine skier Àlex Rius, and the Sports Merit Trophy to Esquí Club Pas de la Casa-Grau Roig.