Kiwi Ben Richards wins FIS Ski Freeride world title

Ben Richards in action to his World Championship title PHOTO: D DAHER/SNOW SPORTS NZ

The inaugural FIS Freeride World Championships in Andorra has seen another kiwi skier rise to the top of his game with Ben Richards winning the Men’s Ski event.

Coming off back-to-back victoriesns in the 2026 Freeride World Tour at the Baqueira Beret Pro in Spain and Val Thorens Pro in France, 26-year-old Richards was an incoming favourite who did not disappoint, delivering a smooth as butter run, scoring a 91.67 to take tthe win.

His run, featuring two 360s, and showing total composure on a rocky face with big drops and perfect landings, showed yet again he is cool under pressure and one of the smoothest freeriders in the world.

Marking the first time a freeride event sanctioned by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) has taken place, the event brought together 66 elite riders from 17 nations in a code that could well be announced as an Olympic sport next year.

The New Zealand team of Richards, Flynn Powell, Conrad Niven (snowboard) and Jessica Hotter took on the iconic Basser Negre face in Ordino Arcalis in the Pyrenees with its vertical drop of 470 meters. Conditions were excellent with 20cm of overnight snow.

Richards is in the form of his life and loving every moment.

“I honestly can’t believe it. It’s been a dream start to the season. I definitely feel in a groove right now; my goal for the rest of the season is just to keep it going, have fun and keep the golden bib.”

Team coach and manager Blake Marshall, himself a four-time world tour athlete.

“Ben knows how to stick to his strengths. He is dominating right now with his ability to make it look really clean and smooth with no mistakes, and the judges have been rewarding that. He’s just doing amazing. I’m really happy for him.”