IOC approves ski mountaineering as an additional sport, expanding the event lineup for the French Alps 2030 Winter Games.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has officially approved ski mountaineering as an additional sport for the Alpes 2030 Olympic Winter Games, marking a significant milestone in the sport’s growing international profile.
The decision was confirmed during the 146th IOC Session held in Lausanne after receiving support from the IOC Executive Board and a proposal submitted by the French Alps 2030 Organizing Committee (OCOG).
The inclusion of ski mountaineering reflects the IOC’s ongoing efforts to modernize the Winter Olympics by introducing sports that appeal to younger audiences and showcase regional sporting traditions.
The discipline has experienced substantial growth in recent years, strengthening its case for a permanent place on the Olympic stage.
Karl Stoss, Chair of the Olympic Programme Working Group, highlighted the sport’s rapid expansion since its initial entry into the Olympic program in 2021.
According to him, the number of participating National Olympic Committees has increased by more than 45 percent, while registered athlete memberships in clubs have more than doubled during the same period.
He noted that ski mountaineering offers unique value to the Olympic Winter Games due to its strong connection with alpine regions and its ability to contribute to the diversity and authenticity of the competition program.
The sport has gained popularity among younger athletes and fans, making it an attractive addition to future Winter Games.
French Alps 2030 OCOG President Edgar Grospiron welcomed the decision, emphasizing that ski mountaineering has deep historical roots in the development of skiing and remains closely tied to the cultural identity of the host region.
He described the sport as a natural fit for the French Alps and an important part of mountain heritage.
Under the proposed program for Alpes 2030, ski mountaineering will feature five medal events across two disciplines with a total athlete quota of 72 competitors.
The schedule is expected to include men’s and women’s individual races, as well as men’s, women’s, and mixed relay sprint events, which are set to make their Olympic debut at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games.
The IOC Executive Board is expected to finalize the detailed competition format and athlete quotas in the coming weeks after reviewing performance and participation data from the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics. The move is widely seen as another step toward broadening the appeal and inclusivity of the Winter Olympic program.
