Lausanne, 12 September 2025 – The International Ski Mountaineering Federation (ISMF) is setting up its headquarters in Lausanne this September. The ISMF represents 55 national federations from across 4 continents. This significant move further strengthens the central role of Lausanne and the Canton of Vaud in international sports governance.
The opening of the ISMF’s strategic and operational hub in Lausanne underscores the continued commitment of the City of Lausanne and the Canton of Vaud to support the growth and development of international sports federations. The Lausanne Olympic Capital Foundation (LOCF) played a key role in facilitating this transition, providing essential support as part of its mission to attract and integrate leading sports organizations into Lausanne’s dynamic ecosystem.
Ms. Christelle Luisier Brodard, State Councillor of the Canton of Vaud – Head of the Department of Finance, Territory, and Sport: “We are honored to welcome the International Ski Mountaineering Federation. Our country has a long and distinguished history with ski mountaineering, from the legendary Patrouille des Glaciers to major events like this year’s ISMF World Cup in Villars, making our region an ideal strategic base for the Federation.”
Ms. Émilie Moeschler, Municipal Councillor of the City of Lausanne, Department of Sports and Social Cohesion: “The City of Lausanne is proud to welcome the International Ski Mountaineering Federation, joining nearly 60 international federations and organizations already based in the region. This move reflects our proactive policy of hosting international sports organizations. In Lausanne, the Olympic Capital, the ISMF will benefit from an ideal environment to continue its growth. We look forward to strengthening our partnership with them.”
Mr. Sébastien Griesmar, Director of the Lausanne Olympic Capital Foundation: “We are truly honored that the ISMF has chosen to establish its headquarters in the heart of the Olympic Capital, and particularly within the Maison du Sport International (MSI). ISMF’s arrival marks a significant addition, becoming the third winter sports federation to join our dynamic hub of international sport.”
The ISMF office in Lausanne will serve as the strategic and operational hub. It will host the leadership team and provide a professional setting for key meetings with partners, stakeholders, and members of the Olympic Movement.
Ms. Regula Meier, President of the ISMF, commented on this strategic move: “The opening of our new office in Lausanne marks a major milestone for the ISMF. Being located within the MSI enables us to strengthen our collaboration with partners across the Olympic Movement and reinforces our commitment to advancing ski mountaineering on a global scale.”
Mr. Ramone Cooper, ISMF General Director, added: “Lausanne provides an ideal base for our next phase of development. Establishing our operational hub at the MSI allows us to connect directly with institutional partners, welcome our stakeholders into a professional setting, and build on the momentum of our sport’s Olympic debut. At the same time, our administrative office in Mondovì remains central to the day-to-day functioning of the Federation, ensuring continuity and stability. We are grateful to the Lausanne Olympic Capital Foundation for their support, which has made this possible.”
This new presence in Lausanne is particularly timely, as ski mountaineering continues to grow on the international stage. The sport made its Olympic debut at the Lausanne 2020 Winter Youth Olympic Games and is included in the program for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. The Olympic Capital looks forward to a fruitful collaboration with the ISMF, supporting its mission and contributing to the continued global development of ski mountaineering.