Orcières hosts the finale of a strong SBX European Cup season

May 04, 2026·Snowboard Cross

The 2025/26 FIS Snowboard Cross European Cup season concluded in Orcières (FRA) in early April, marking the end of a competitive and technically advanced tour that once again highlighted the circuit’s role as a key stepping stone toward the FIS World Cup.

With more than 200 athletes from 25 nations and a total of 10 stages — including two additional events added mid-season — the European Cup delivered a high level of racing despite challenging weather conditions throughout the winter.

The calendar featured a balanced mix of established venues and new additions. Erzincan (TUR) and St. Moritz (SUI) joined the tour as new hosts, expanding both its geographical reach and technical diversity. In particular, St. Moritz stood out with a World Cup-level course, combining high-quality construction, advanced features, and strong organizational standards.

Across the season, the level of competition continued to rise, with extremely tight qualification margins, tactically demanding heats, and increased race speeds. The evolution of course design encouraged fluid and aggressive riding, rewarding athletes capable of adapting to terrain transitions and maintaining control through complex sections. Nevertheless, organizers ensured the continuity of the tour, maintaining high standards of safety and competition throughout the season.

The competitive depth of the circuit was reflected in the diversity of results. In the men’s category, athletes from 11 nations reached the podium, with six countries claiming victories. In the women’s field, riders from eight nations secured podium finishes, with four different winners over the course of the season — underlining the growing international reach and balance of the European Cup.

In the overall standings, France dominated the women’s competition with a full podium sweep. Fiona Caiolo Serra (FRA) secured the overall title with three victories and six podium finishes, followed by Lyse Laine (FRA) in second place and Candice Beneton (FRA) in third.

In the men’s overall ranking, Achille Leleu (FRA) claimed the title with three wins, ahead of Cameron Turner (AUS) — the reigning Junior World Champion — in second place, while Matteo Rezzoli (ITA) finished third overall.

"A big thank you to all organizers for their dedication and flexibility throughout the season. Delivering events at such a high level under challenging conditions is a strong testament to their professionalism and commitment to the sport,"– said Riccardo Chiminazzo, FIS European Cup Snowboard Cross Coordinator

With over 200 athletes, 25 participating nations, and 13 countries represented on the podium, the 2025/26 season once again confirmed the European Cup as a crucial platform for developing snowboard cross athletes on their pathway toward World Cup level.

FIS extends its best wishes to all athletes for a productive off-season and strong preparation ahead of the upcoming winter.