Skiing Without Snow: Candide Thovex and the Audi Q7 Ad That Took the Internet by Storm

A recent YouTube video has captivated audiences worldwide, amassing nearly 1.5 million views in record time. What’s surprising is that this isn’t just any viral clip—it’s a commercial. The video showcases the exceptional capabilities of the Audi Q7, yet the car itself doesn’t even appear in the footage. The highlight? Legendary skier Candide Thovex defying conventions and skiing across terrains you’d never expect.

In the video, Thovex skis down slopes across various countries, but there’s one twist—there’s no snow. From grassy hills and sandy dunes to volcanic ash and even water, Thovex demonstrates the mantra behind the campaign: #AllConditionsArePerfectConditions. The tagline perfectly aligns with the Audi Q7’s promise of top-tier performance on any surface.

The Legend of Candide Thovex

Candide Thovex, a 35-year-old Frenchman, is a pioneer in the world of freestyle and freeride skiing. Known for his creativity and technical prowess, Thovex partnered with Audi to explore unconventional skiing terrains. His journey began with viral fame in 2015, when he collaborated with Audi on a video showcasing his skiing skills on grassy Alpine slopes. The clip, featuring daring stunts like jumping over roads and sliding through tunnels, ended with Thovex landing gracefully into an Audi Q7’s trunk.

Beyond Snow: Skiing in Extreme Conditions

Thovex and his team scoured the globe, seeking unique landscapes for this ambitious project. From Europe to Asia, they deliberately avoided snow-covered slopes, opting instead for terrains where skiing seems almost impossible. Here are the highlights:

Grass

The team’s journey began in Europe, where they camped under the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Despite harsh weather, Thovex executed a flawless 360-degree spin off a grassy rooftop—an unforgettable feat that became a defining moment of the shoot.

Sand

In the vast deserts, Thovex braved endless sand dunes, testing his skills and the durability of his equipment. Sand infiltrated everything—food, sleeping bags, and even toothpaste. The crew faced equipment malfunctions due to the abrasive environment but managed to capture breathtaking footage.

Water

Thovex mastered skiing on shallow, calm waters, a technique reminiscent of waterskiing. However, when waves disrupted the surface, maintaining control became a challenge. With precision and determination, he achieved a unique hybrid of skiing and surfing.

Jungle

In dense tropical forests, Thovex navigated palm groves on skis, dodging trees and vines. The team wore minimal clothing due to the heat, while Thovex performed stunts in full ski gear—showcasing his resilience and adaptability.

Volcanic Ash

Volcanic slopes presented a unique challenge. Thovex skied over layers of black ash, avoiding obstacles like hardened lava and loose rocks. Despite the harsh conditions, he executed his stunts with precision, proving that even volcanic terrain couldn’t deter him.

Stone

Gliding over stone structures, including ancient walls and stairs, Thovex demonstrated unparalleled control. While these architectural wonders attract tourists, they rarely serve as a skier’s playground—until now.

Earth

Thovex thrived on bare earth slopes, using favorable weather to showcase his agility. Despite unpredictable terrain, he performed with elegance, further solidifying his status as a freeriding legend.

A Journey of Dedication

Born in the French Alps, Candide Thovex started skiing at age two. By 14, he was a junior national champion, paving the way for his illustrious career. Despite setbacks, including a severe spinal injury, Thovex’s determination and innovation have made him a trailblazer in extreme sports.

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