The Freeride World Tour skiing and snowboarding series has signed a three-year deal for Swatch to continue as its title sponsor.
The Swiss watch manufacturer’s new contract runs from 2015 through 2017, with the company having supported Freeride since the Xtreme Verbier event in 1997.
Freeride World Tour general manager for Europe, Nicolas Hale-Woods, said: “A partner since the beginning, Swatch’s long-term commitment to the sport is a fantastic reward for the riders, organisers, partners and fans. Together, we'll be celebrating the 20th anniversary of Xtreme Verbier in 2015, a great pride knowing the sport's progression is only starting.”
Swatch creative director Carlo Giordanetti added: “As title sponsor and partner we will continue working with the FWT organisation to develop the format further and take this amazing event to the next level.”
Italy’s Courmayeur Mont Blanc will commence the 2014 World Tour with a men’s ski and snowboard event on January 18. Verbier in Switzerland will conclude the six-event season on March 22 with a combined men’s and women’s competition.