A Season to Remember: Fanny Smith and Reece Howden Crowned Ski Cross Champions

April 1, 2025

The 2024/2025 FIS Ski Cross World Cup season concluded with thrilling performances from two of the sport’s biggest stars—Switzerland’s Fanny Smith and Canada’s Reece Howden—both securing the prestigious Crystal Globe in their respective categories.

Photo by: GEPA pictures

The 2024/2025 FIS Ski Cross World Cup season concluded with thrilling performances from two of the sport’s biggest stars—Switzerland’s Fanny Smith and Canada’s Reece Howden—both securing the prestigious Crystal Globe in their respective categories.

Reece Howden Claims His Third Crystal Globe

In a dramatic final showdown at Idre Fjäll, Reece Howden cemented his place among the sport’s greats by winning his third career Crystal Globe. The men’s competition came down to a high-stakes battle between Howden and his closest rival, Italy’s Simone Deromedis. With both athletes still in contention, Deromedis needed a victory while hoping Howden finished third or lower. However, Howden demonstrated composure under pressure, finishing first in the big final and securing the overall title while Simone claimed the second place in the overall ranking.

Howden’s victory at Idre Fjäll not only crowned him the season’s best but also put him in elite company, matching the three Globe wins of his idol, Jean-Frédéric Chapuis. Reflecting on his achievement, Howden acknowledged the physical and mental toll of the season, emphasizing his determination to keep pushing forward.

“This has been the big goal for a long time, the dream, and we’re just going to try and keep it rolling,” said Howden, who previously won the title in 2021 and 2023.

Fanny Smith Dominates the Women’s Circuit

Fanny Smith showcased her dominance on the women’s circuit, finishing her season in spectacular fashion. Having already secured the Crystal Globe with a third-place finish on day one at Idre Fjäll, Smith went on to win the big final on day two, capping off a nearly flawless campaign.

Her consistency was unmatched, as she stood on the podium in the last seven World Cup races, securing four victories along the way. Adding to her incredible season, Smith also won gold in both the individual and team events at the World Championships.

“I really wanted to finish perfectly, and that’s amazing to win today in Idre Fjäll,” Smith said, acknowledging the physical demands of the season.

Smith’s triumph solidifies her status as one of the greatest ski cross athletes of her generation, further adding to her already impressive career accolades.

A Season to Remember

With their respective victories, Howden and Smith once again proved their excellence in ski cross, overcoming fierce competition and adversity to claim the sport’s most coveted prize. Their dedication, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure make them deserving champions, and their success will surely inspire the next generation of ski cross athletes.

Photo by: GEPA pictures