As the world watches Ski Mountaineering (Skimo) debut at this week's Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, attention is already turning to 2030 – with freeride skiing emerging as a strong contender for Olympic inclusion. This high-risk discipline, combining extreme terrain navigation and artistic aerial maneuvers, could mark the latest evolution of winter sports.
The International Olympic Committee is currently evaluating freeride skiing's potential inclusion, capitalizing on its growing global following. Athletes descend unmarked mountain routes at speeds exceeding 80 km/h while executing technical jumps, appealing to younger audiences seeking adrenaline-fueled competitions.
"This isn't just sport – it's a cultural movement," said World Freeride Skiing Association chair Marie Lundqvist. "The 2030 Games could redefine winter sports tourism and equipment innovation across Asia's developing ski markets.\p>
While safety protocols remain a key discussion point, the sport's commercial potential is undeniable. Recent competitions in Japan's Hokkaido and the Chinese mainland's Chongli district have drawn record crowds, with sponsors increasingly targeting the US$1.2 billion action sports market.
