Allianz FIS Freeride World Championships Confirmed for Today in Andorra

Organisers have confirmed that the Allianz FIS Freeride World Championships Andorra 2026 by Mammut will proceed today, February 3, at Ordino Arcalís's Basser Negre face. The single-day event brings together 65 skiers and snowboarders from 17 countries to contest the inaugural FIS-sanctioned freeride world titles across men's and women's ski and snowboard categories.

Recent storms have deposited over 150cm of fresh snow, creating optimal conditions at the 2,687-metre north-east facing venue. Basser Negre delivers a 470-metre vertical drop with a 36% average gradient—peaking at 47%—and three distinct technical zones featuring rocky outcrops, exposed ridges and challenging transitions. These demand riders' creativity, fluid technique and rapid decision-making. The face returns to elite competition for the first time since 2018, when Arianna Tricomi and Drew Tabke delivered standout runs.

Live streams begin at 9am CET, with the first rider descending at 9:15am. Coverage appears on official event platforms, Ordino Arcalís channels and Freeride World Tour social media, including real-time updates and athlete interviews. The start order remains pending finalisation.

Earlier weather assessments scrapped plans for Sunday or Monday at alternative sites like Smoothys Garden, prioritising safety. Saturday's high winds also cancelled the Hortell village with its brand activations and ski demos, though après-ski at Cota 1,300 went ahead. Organisers expect the village to open Sunday.

The event falls within a 1-6 February window, elevating Andorra's freeride status ahead of the Winter Olympics and supporting the discipline's Olympic ambitions. Friday's bilingual launch at Illa Carlemany featured flag parades, speeches, Esbart Santa Anna dances, a flashmob and bib ceremonies. Attendees included FIS Secretary General Michel Vion and Tourism and Commerce Minister Jordi Torres, who described hosting the debut as an honour tied to national commitment.

Ordino Sports councillor Jordi Serracanta emphasised Ordino Arcalís's freeride heritage and spectator access. Grandvalira Resorts marketing director David Ledesma highlighted the global exposure for the resort and Andorra. Freeride World Tour CEO Nicolas Hale-Woods lauded the venue and welcome as a landmark. Andorran Ski Federation vice-president Patrick Toussant called snow the nation's "blood", while manager Carles Visa viewed it as a historic honour.

Andorra's representative, skier Joan Aracil, expressed deep pride in carrying the flag. He and coach Dani Fornell, a former competitor who knows the terrain well, have mapped a line blending a rocky technical upper section, mid-face jumps including backflips, and a strong classic freeride finish. Fornell predicted Aracil would endure the demanding run and make history.

Spanish snowboarder Núria Castán, of Head Snowboards and RFEDI-SpainSnow, traced her freeride origins to Ordino Arcalís over 14 years ago during the Freeride Junior Tour's early days. She marvelled at the sport's subsequent growth and acclaim.