One Week Until Swatch Nines Hits Niseko

The first-ever Swatch Nines event in Asia is right around the corner! From April 6–11, 2025 the Nines will be held in Niseko, Japan at Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU. This adventurous collaboration between a storied winter destination and the Nines’ unique event format opens an exciting new chapter in the Swatch Nines story.

A MASSIVE BUILD IS UNDERWAY IN NISEKO

The Nines shape crew has been onsite in Niseko for a few weeks already and has found plenty of snow to work with. Designed by the riders, the 2026 event setup features a Big Air jump and many other creative transition elements. One highlight: the massive 50-meter-long rail. With the iconic Mount Yotei as the backdrop, the setup is already looking legendary.

FINAL RIDERS LIST: SKI & SNOWBOARD ROYALTY

Over fifty skiers and snowboarders from around the globe have confirmed their attendance at Swatch Nines Snow 2026. The riders’ list includes one of the most highly decorated fields at a Nines event yet, as well as a wide range of other talent, from contest greats to underground heroes.

Japanese snowboard royalty like Kokomo Murase, Ayumu and Kaishu Hirano and Hiroto Ogiwara will be present for the Nines’ debut on their home turf, as they help to welcome visiting riders like Fridtjof “Fridge” Tischendorf (NOR) and Mia Brookes (GBR).

On the ski side, luminaries like Megan Oldham (CAN), Birk Ruud (NOR) and Jesper Tjäder (SWE) will be making the trip to Niseko, alongside fan favorites like Tormod Frostad (NOR) and Alex Hackel (USA).

“I’m really hyped for the Nines this year because it’s my first time and the setup looks so good and fun! And I’m also excited about going to Japan, it’s one of my favorite countries. So, these two combined, it could be the best time ever. I’m really looking forward to ride and shred the Nines park.” – Romain Allemand (FRA)

BECOME A NINE WINNERS

After reviewing dozens of submissions from around the world, four standout riders have been chosen by Downdays and Method Mag as the winners of the 2026 Become A Nine wildcard contest.

Among the snowboard entries, Momo Maheux (CAN) impressed with her strong skills on both rails and jumps, while the style and creativity of Haku Shimasaki (JPN) caught the eye of the jury.

“Swatch Nines is one of the few events where everything feels possible-you can go big and get creative all in one place. Having it in Japan makes the whole experience even more special. My entry video was all about style, getting that recognized feels huge. Stoked to ride!” – Momo Maheux

For the skiers it’s a New Zealand takeover, with Mischa Thomas and Lucas Ball representing the next generation of Kiwi talent.

PUBLIC DAY: APRIL 11, 2026 AT NISEKO TOKYU GRAND HIRAFU

Swatch Nines Public Day invites the general public to come watch the invited riders take on the setup for a day of unforgettable action. Entry is free with a ski pass—don’t miss this special chance to experience the Nines’ debut in Niseko for yourself.