A Global Stage in the Dolomites: Youth Ski Mountaineering World Cup in Forni di Sopra

Nestled in the breathtaking Friulian Dolomites, Forni di Sopra has cemented its reputation as a hub for international ski mountaineering. Following its successful hosting of the EYOF Youth Olympic Games in 2023 and the Italian Championships in 2024, this picturesque Alpine town welcomed athletes from around the world for the ISMF Ski Mountaineering Youth World Cup on January 25 and 26, 2025.
Saturday’s opening day saw the thrilling Sprint competition, which tested the speed and precision of the sport's brightest young talents. As the sun cast its glow over the snow-covered peaks, we followed the action on the slopes, speaking with competitors from countries as diverse as Germany, Japan, and the United States. "It’s an incredible feeling to race in such a stunning setting," said 18-year-old Anna Müller from Germany. "The atmosphere here is truly special."
The event culminated in gold medal victories for Italy, China, Germany, and Andorra, as the world’s top youth ski mountaineers competed in favorable weather conditions. Representing 15 countries, seven nations secured at least one medal during the event, showcasing the sport’s growing global reach.
Women U18
The Under-18 women’s race featured ten competitors, with the top six from qualifying advancing to the final. Italy’s Giorgia Pollini delighted the local fans with an impressive victory, finishing ahead of China’s Ani Pumu, the reigning champion from Crevacol. Spain’s Nuria Balager claimed bronze in her international debut, rounding out the podium. The finalists also included Enya Summermatter (SUI), Theresa Schivalocchi (ITA), and Elena Beatrice Boboc (ROU).
Men U18
The Under-18 men’s final was filled with drama. Germany’s Moritz Bauregger faced a setback moments before the start when he discovered a broken ski binding, forcing him to borrow equipment and begin the race late. Despite this, the competition was fierce, with China’s Langjia Gongsong taking an early lead and securing gold. Austria’s Killian Rettensteiner earned silver, while Italy’s Gioele Migliorati captured bronze. Spain’s Luca Fuentes Perez narrowly edged out Josef Nakladal (CZE) for fourth, while Bauregger finished in sixth after his equipment challenges.
Women U20
In the Under-20 women’s category, Germany’s Helena Euringer dominated, winning every stage from qualification to the final, improving significantly on her 7th-place finish at Crevacol. France’s Camille Maupoix took silver, while Switzerland’s Robine Deseyn, younger sister of Olympic gold medalist Thibe Deseyn, earned bronze. Emma Albretch (AUT), Silvia Boscacci (ITA), and Melissa Bertolini (ITA) completed the top six.
Men U20
Max Palmitjavila of Andorra showcased exceptional skill and endurance, winning his heats, semifinals, and the final to claim gold in the Under-20 men’s category. Theo Voutaz (FRA) earned silver, while Italy’s Umberto Ferrazza secured bronze. The remaining finalists included Enricco Pellegrini (ITA), Malik Uldry (SUI), and Lorenzo Milesi (ITA). Unfortunately, several top contenders, including Eric Canovi (ITA), Silvano Wolf (AUT), and Xavier Lehner (SUI), were sidelined by illness before the race began.
Organized by the Società Sportiva Fornese, the event brought together a wide array of partners, including ISMF, FISI FVG, PromoTurismo FVG, the Municipality of Forni di Sopra, the Dolomiti in Tutti i Sensi Business Network, the local Pro Loco, and a dedicated team of volunteers. Their combined efforts ensured a seamless competition and a warm welcome for the international contingent of athletes and fans.
The program concludes with the Mixed Relay, a showcase of teamwork and endurance, solidifying Forni di Sopra’s position as a premier destination for ski mountaineering.