James Pouch, long-term Freeski World Cup squad member, to retire ahead of new season

James Pouch, one of Britain’s longest standing Park & Pipe World Cup skiers, has announced his decision to retire from competition ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Widely recognised for his style and technical strengths, James has made his World Cup debut in January 2020, racking up nine top 30 World Cup finishes across his career, as well as appearing at the 2025 World Championships in St Moritz.

James’ competitive FIS debut came in January 2017 in Waterville, USA, with his first competitive appearance outside of North America coming in a World Cup debut which saw him finish 40^th in Slopestyle in Seiseralm, Italy. James broke the World Cup top-30 for the first time three years later in Silvaplana, finishing 22^nd in Slopestyle, while his best World Cup result came in the Klagenfurt Big Air competition in January 2025 with a storming 16^th place finish.

The 2025/26 season saw James record six World Cup results including two Big Air top 30s in Steamboat in December 2025, where he came 24^th, and Tignes in March where he finished in 29^th place.

Alongside his competition performances, James has been an integral part of the British Freeski team notably training and competing alongside Chris McCormick, Tom Greenway, and Tyler Harding in the Men’s Park & Pipe Freeski World Cup squad.

Announcing his decision to retire, James said:

“It’s been an incredible time skiing with the team over the years. I’ve seen parts of the world that I otherwise wouldn’t have, met amazing people, and been able to compete with the best skiers out there. I’ve had such a blast travelling, training, competing, and just spending time with the Park & Pipe squad.

“Freeskiing is in a great place right now and I feel really honoured and fortunate to have been a part of the scene for all this time. It’s something that will always be a part of who I am, but I know that it’s the right time for me to step away from competing and focus on my next endeavour. 

“I want to say thank you to my family, teammates, coaches, and everyone else who has been a part of the journey, there are certainly a lot. Seven years later and I still can’t believe I’ve had the privilege to do this, I can’t thank everyone enough.”

Jamie Matthew, GB Snowsport Freeski head coach, celebrated James’ contribution to the team:

“James has been a huge part of the GB Snowsport Park & Pipe family for the past seven years. Having immediately been thrown into the Covid era during his first winter with the team and a handful of injuries along the way, it’s been far from easy for him at times.

“James has kept his head down, worked hard, and always showed up with a smile on his face. He’s progressed immensely as an athlete and steps away as a very well-respected World Cup rider. He’s been a huge part of the team and it’s been a privilege to have spent the last seven years in his company. With his having graduated recently from university, we wish James all the best in whatever avenue he chooses to follow next.”

Everyone at GB Snowsport wishes James well in his retirement.