Monster Energy Riders Shine at Snow League Season Finale in Laax, Switzerland

Monster Energy Riders Shine at Snow League Season Finale in Laax

The inaugural season of the Snow League wrapped up in style at the renowned Laax ski resort in Switzerland, where Monster Energy athletes showcased their incredible skills and competitive spirit. Two standout performances during the event saw Canadian freeski superstar Brendan Mackay and rising star Rise Kudo from Japan take home impressive accolades in their respective categories.

Brendan Mackay's Remarkable Finish

28-year-old Brendan Mackay, hailing from Calgary, Canada, clinched a stellar second place in the Men's Freeski Halfpipe. His journey at the finale began with a strong performance against fellow Canadian Andrew Longino in the quarter-finals, from which he advanced with confidence. Mackay continued to impress by defeating American Hunter Hess in the semi-finals, pulling off an array of breathtaking tricks including a double cork 1260.

In the final showdown against New Zealand's Luke Harrold, Mackay started with a perfect run, featuring high-flying maneuvers that captivated the crowd. However, after a difficult second run, the competition tightened up, and despite his efforts, Mackay finished in second place overall at the event. His remarkable performance also earned him the coveted Jeep Biggest Air Award for a spectacular trick that showcased his talent and commitment to the sport. Furthermore, Mackay’s performance throughout the season culminated in a well-deserved second place in the overall season rankings, securing him a spot for the upcoming season.

Rise Kudo's Impressive Debut

Making waves in the Women's Snowboard Halfpipe, 16-year-old Rise Kudo from Sapporo, Japan, also claimed the second spot during the event. She delivered an outstanding performance in the final, exhibiting a technical prowess that brims with maturity beyond her years. Each of Kudo's runs featured impressive combinations of tricks that thrilled spectators and judges alike. Notably, her frontside 900 melon and a backside 900 Weddle stood out among the defining moments of her competition, marking her as a force to be reckoned with in the sport.

Zoe Atkin and Svea Irving’s Podium Finishes

Additionally, Zoe Atkin, a 23-year-old from Park City, Utah, secured third place in the Women's Freeski Halfpipe at the Laax event, also winning the Jeep Biggest Air Award for her remarkable achievements. Her strong showing at the Snow League marked her impressive debut in the competition, and she will be one to watch in the coming seasons.

Meanwhile, Svea Irving from Winter Park, Colorado, finished third in the overall Women's Freeski Halfpipe season standings, further proving the depth of talent among Monster Energy riders.

The Thrill of Competition and Upcoming Prospects

The Snow League, created by three-time Olympic champion Shaun White, brought together the world's elite athletes for thrilling competitions in a unique invite-only format. The event concluded on March 21, 2026, after a series of exhilarating battles across four events throughout the season, including venues in Aspen, Colorado, and Yunding Snow Park in China.

With a stellar prize pool of $2.2 million, the Snow League elevated the standard of snow sports competitions, captivating fans worldwide with live broadcasts reaching over 175 countries. With season one concluded, anticipation is already building for the next series, with dates and locations set to be announced shortly. The Monster Energy team, including key riders like Mackay, Kudo, Atkin, and Irving, have already earned their invitations based on their exceptional performances this season, showcasing the exciting future ahead in the sport.

For the latest updates, fans can follow Monster Energy on their social media platforms or visit their official website.

Monster Energy remains committed to supporting athletes across various extreme sports, embodying a lifestyle grounded in strength, excitement, and competition that resonates with both athletes and fans alike.