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Freeride skiing fans were met with surprising, and for some (me), disappointing news this week as Karl Fostvedt, better known as “Crazy Karl,” announced his withdrawal from the 2025 Kings & Queens of Corbet’s Couloir competition. The event, set to take place next week at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, will be missing one of its most beloved champions.
Fostvedt has been a dominant force at Kings & Queens since its inception. His ability to put forth mind bending tricks packed with his trademark raw energy made him a standout competitor and a quintessential fan favorite of the event.
The competition, which challenges athletes to throw their best tricks into the legendary Corbet’s Couloir before hitting a park-style jump at the bottom, has long played to Fostvedt’s strengths. However, in a heartfelt Instagram post, he expressed gratitude for the event but stated it was time to move on. Karl brought he title home in both 2018 and 2021 and secured second place in 2019, finishing behind legendary snowboarder Travis Rice.
With his fellow Queen at the Mangy Moose after winning the event in 2018. Photo: Jay Goodrich
In his instagram post, Fostvedt emphasized that his skiing journey has always been about adventure. He cited a desire to explore untouched terrain, searching for new cornices and natural features to huck off. While he’s stepping away from Kings & Queens, he made it clear that he’s not done competing—just shifting focus.
Skiing has always been about the adventure. One of my favorite things in life is searching for new zones to ski. There are so many more cornices and other natural features out there waiting to get shredded.
His statement has fueled speculation that he could be vying for a wildcard spot at the upcoming Natural Selection Ski event. The freeride competition has one athlete slot left to fill, and Fostvedt’s name would be a welcomed sight on that already formidable list of riders.
POWDER reached out to NST Ski organizers about whether Fostvedt would take the final competition spot, but they declined to confirm or deny. However, given his extensive experience blending freeride and freestyle elements in natural terrain, Fostvedt seems like a perfect fit for the event. The final roster announcement is set for February 12, 2025.
Karl is 3x champion of the event and the only 2x King of the Couloir. Photo: Izzy Lidsky
While waiting for confirmation on potential competition entries, Fostvedt plans to focus on ski film projects, mental and physical training, and product development with K2 Skis. He emphasized the importance of yoga, clean eating, and maintaining a strong mindset as he prepares for new challenges.
Fans may not see him dropping into Corbet’s this year, but there’s no doubt Fostvedt’s next adventure will be just as thrilling. Whether it’s a return to the competition scene through NST Ski or pushing boundaries in film, the freeride world will be watching closely.