The organization of alpine countries ski federations includes Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovenia, Spain and Switzerland. With the same principle, all 43 ski nations are grouped geographically. These groups have been initiated by the FIS (International Ski Federation) to allow competitors to compete with their neighbors. These continental events are essential preparation competitions in order to qualify for World Cup events, World Championship or the Winter Olympics.

These competitions are nevertheles open to any FIS affiliated nations. As an example, the European OPA cup organized in 2006 in Praz de Lys (France) welcomed at least 22 nations.