Second edition of Val Thorens Pro reaffirms France’s prominence on the FWT calendar

Jan 27, 2026·Freeride

A dynamic venue and energized crowd made Val Thorens the perfect host for Stop Two of the 2026 FWT, delivering an unforgettable day on the mountain.

Victor de Le Rue (FRA), Noémie Equy (FRA), Ben Richards (NZL) and Agostina Vietti (ARG) made a lasting impression with runs that secured them the win
The new face, Pointe de Thorens, offered a technical and visually striking venue for the competition
French fans brought the heat, igniting the atmosphere in Val Thorens

For its second stop of the season, the Freeride World Tour by Peak Performance landed in Val Thorens, France. Despite challenging snow conditions that rendered the original competition face on Cime Caron unusable and unpredictable weather during the inspection days, a two-day weather window carefully managed by the organizers allowed for a spectacular event to unfold.

The competition was relocated to the Pointe de Thorens (3,266 m), whose unique terrain provided the perfect stage for riders to showcase their full range of skills. The result: a series of spectacular runs and an unforgettable day of freeride action.

A passionate French crowd, fully behind their home athletes, brought even more energy to the show under clear blue skies. Gathered between the finish area and two vibrant fan zones within the resort, spectators turned out in force, and their support was rewarded with multiple French podium finishes throughout the day. The atmosphere once again confirmed that Val Thorens is a premier destination for freeride skiing and snowboarding in France.

Snowboard Men: Val Thorens riders dominate the podium

Victor de Le Rue (FRA), a true legend of Val Thorens, claimed a victory that had been firmly in his sights since last season, delivering a powerful and highly technical run in exposed terrain. After a mixed opening stop in Spain, the four-time Freeride World Tour Champion returned to the podium in style with a score of 90.67, reminding everyone why he remains one of the sport’s defining figures.

In second place, Shayne Blue Sandblom (USA) lit up the face with an electric performance, highlighted by a massive backflip, earning a score of 87.00. Defending event winner Enzo Nilo (FRA) thrilled the home crowd with a confident and fluid run, making the most of his local knowledge. While he may not have taken the win, his performance ignited the Val Thorens spectators and secured a strong score of 84.67.

This morning I was a bit nervous, but once we arrived and saw all the fresh powder, everything changed. The conditions were amazing, the crowd was there, and the motivation went through the roof. I even adapted my line at the top because the snow was better than expected. This run was for the people of Val Thorens and the whole riding community, it means a lot to share moments like this with everyone who supports us– Victor de Le Rue, 2026 Val Thorens Pro Snowboard Men winner

Snowboard Women: Noémie Equy claims long-awaited home victory

Noémie Equy (FRA) finally claimed the home victory she had been chasing since last season, an achievement that meant even more to her than last year’s FWT title. In front of a roaring Val Thorens crowd, the reigning Champion delivered a confident and precise performance, showcasing the technical mastery and composure that have defined her rise on the Tour. Equy secured the win with a score of 84.00. She was closely followed by Anna Martinez (FRA), who once again secured second place, confirming her remarkable consistency and control in technical terrain. Backed by strong support from the French crowd, Martinez earned a score of 78.33. Completing the podium, Mia Jones (USA) continued an impressive rookie season, claiming her second podium finish with a score of 64.67. Despite an early fall that could have shaken her confidence, Jones recovered with determination to deliver another standout performance.

I’m really happy. From the start of the day I felt great and completely in the right headspace. At the top, I was just enjoying the view, you can see the Glacier de Thorens, and it’s a place I truly love to ride. Being at home made it even more special. I felt no stress at all, just fully in the flow during my run. It was the perfect feeling.– Noémie Equy, 2026 Val Thorens Pro Snowboard Women winner

@Jérémy Bernard

Ski Men: Ben Richards continues winning streak with back-to-back victories

Five former Freeride World Tour Champions competed in this category, yet none reached the podium. Ben Richards (NZL) claimed first place with a near-flawless, statement run. Dropping last in the leader’s bib, he put his plan into action with trademark composure, attacking the top section smoothly and efficiently with a huge, 360 into a clean straight air. This performance earned Richards a solid 92.00 score and cemented his second consecutive win on the 2026 FWT.

American Rookie, Joey Leonardo (USA) landed in second place by delivering a high-energy run from top to bottom, linking a clean 360 and a floaty backflip with composure, securing him a score of 89.00. Ross Tester (USA) put down a powerful and clean run, including a double feature into a 360 which earned him a score of 84.33 and 3rd place on the podium.

I’m so happy. I took inspiration from Toby and Fynn, who dropped first, and they really helped confirm my line choice. I’m incredibly thankful to them and I can’t believe I won once again.– Ben Richards, 2026 Val Thorens Pro Ski Men winner

@Jérémy Bernard

Ski Women: Historic win, first Argentine woman to claim a Freeride World Tour victory

Agostina Vietti (ARG) made FWT history as the first Argentine woman to win first place in the Ski Women category with a score of 77.33. She delivered a fast, confident run, that drew on her ski-racing roots in order to commit to point-earning features whilst maintaining speed throughout.

Sybille Blanjean (SUI) took home second place, scoring 74.33 in her first year back competing as an Injury Wildcard. Sibylle proved her spot on the Tour by attacking exposed features and confidently landing technically challenging terrain. Coming in at third with a score of 72.00 on her rookie season, Wynter McBride (USA) displayed a consistent and well-rounded run, opening with a solid first air and adjusting her speed accordingly throughout her run.

My run felt amazing. I did exactly what I wanted to do. I skipped a few features, but the plan worked perfectly and I’m really stoked. I wasn’t as stressed as I used to be at the start gate; I’m learning to manage that energy better. I’ve realized that nerves can actually be a source of strength, and they really help me perform.– Agostina Vietti, 2026 Val Thorens Pro Ski Women winner

@Jérémy Bernard

From the Alps to the Caucasus: the Tour charges on

With the completion of this second stop, the season is now in full swing, and the overall rankings are beginning to take shape. The strong French contingent drew energy from the home crowd, pushing their limits in front of an enthusiastic local audience.

Looking ahead, they'll be without that home advantage, as the Freeride World Tour by Peak Performance heads next to the majestic Caucasus Mountains for the third stop of the season: the Georgia Pro.

Don’t miss the first-ever Allianz FIS Freeride World Championships Andorra 2026, presented by Mammut, taking place from 1–6 February, where the first FIS Freeride World Champions will be crowned.

For live updates, results, and exclusive content, follow the Freeride World Tour on social media or visit www.freerideworldtour.com.