The FESA Games for U16 and U18 athletes took place from 20–22 March 2026 in Santa Caterina Valfurva, alongside the FESA Continental Cup Finals, creating a unique platform for both youth and elite cross-country skiing.

The event was held under excellent conditions, with initially warm temperatures followed by 25 cm of fresh snowfall, providing a perfect winter setting for the young athletes. Thanks to the outstanding efforts of the organizing committee, the courses were prepared at a very high level, ensuring fair and exciting competitions throughout the weekend.

In total, around 180 athletes from the member nations of the FESA Cross-Country Commission took part, underlining the importance of the event within the European development pathway.

The FESA Games are a key development initiative of FESA, bringing together Europe’s most promising young athletes in the U16 and U18 categories. The event focuses on international competition, athlete development, and education, offering a first step into high-level racing and fostering the next generation of cross-country skiers.

The competition program included an Interval Start Classic (C) on Saturday and a Mixed Relay (W–M–W–M) in Free Technique on Sunday.

Saturday – Interval Start Classic

U16 Girls:

1. Manon PRADEL MAYER (FRA)
2. Milla PITTIER (SUI)
3. Clara MUELLER (GER)

U16 Boys:

1. Nohe BOYER (FRA)
2. Dario SPADIN (SUI)
3. Gabriel GAUDIN (FRA)

U18 Girls:

1. Lina BUNDI (SUI)
2. Chiara FROEHLICH (SUI)
3. Magdalena BRANDOVA (CZE)

U18 Boys:

1. Victor LAFRASSE (FRA)
2. Lilian JAUSSAUD (FRA)
3. Julien ROSSIER (SUI)

Sunday – Mixed Relay Free Technique

• U16:
  1. Switzerland I
  2. Switzerland III 
  3. France II 
• U18:
  1. Switzerland I 
  2. France I 
  3. Czech Republic I

A special highlight of the weekend was the award ceremony on Saturday in the village center of Santa Caterina, which provided a festive atmosphere and rounded off the competition day in front of athletes, teams, and spectators.

FESA Games Team Trophy

The team performances across both days were reflected in the overall standings, where Switzerland claimed victory in the FESA Games Team Trophy, highlighting their depth and strength in youth development.

With strong participation, excellent organization, and a unique combination of competition and development, the FESA Games once again demonstrated their importance as a cornerstone of the European cross-country skiing pathway.

FESA would like to thank all athletes, teams, and organizers for contributing to a successful and inspiring event.

Results