In Le Sauze, France the 2026 Freeride World Tour Challenger for Region 1 came to a close as the top riders secured their spots for the 2027 FWT. These athletes competed in six events across Europe, culminating in this final stop in France.
The FWT Challenger series serves as a gateway to the Pro Tour; riders in Region 1 must perform on a high level for the whole season in order to qualify. The best four of six results count towards overall rankings, prioritizing consistency and control. This season was an exciting mix of energetic rookies and experienced returners.
In the Ski Women category, two French riders were able to qualify. Heading into Le Sauze, the women’s category remained wide open, but Mia McNab and Mila de Le Rue came out on top. McNab had two victories on this year’s circuit and de Le Rue claimed one, both demonstrating the balance between control and risk-taking.
For Ski Men, four athletes qualified. Simon Zwischenbrugger (AUT) entered the season as a wildcard but managed to come out on top. Edvin Olsson, skiing out of Sweden, competed in the 2025 Tour but withdrew due to industry. He returned this season ready to put down stellar runs. Out of France, Noah Peizerat will join his Freeski Academy teammates as he works to push the field further. Swiss skier Maxime Chabloz, requalified after he was FWT Champion in 2022. After a difficult season, Chabloz had one win and a few standout runs that helped him reach the level he needed to qualify for the 2027 tour.
Two Snowboard Men qualified, including former Pro Tour athlete Timm Schröder (GER). He consistently found himself on the podium with both a win and a second-place finish, leading him to the 2027 tour. Kealan Venning, from Ireland, secured qualification before the final comp in France. With two wins throughout this season, he also demonstrated the importance of consistency. He’s making history as the first Irish rider to compete on the FWT.
The 2022 Snowboard Women’s Champion is back as Tiphanie Perrotin (FRA) requalifies. She dominated the circuit this season, and with three wins, there was no question about her qualification. This marks a special achievement for her after spending two seasons on the Challenger circuit working to requalify.
These riders will join the qualifiers from Region 2 and the riders who prequalified from the 2026 Freeride World Tour on the 2027 tour. With the best of the best in the comp, next years circuit should be a great show.