Cloud 9 to host world’s best: Philippines joins 2026 WSL championship tour

The World Surf League adds Cloud 9, Siargao, to the 2026 Championship Tour schedule, marking a historic moment for professional surfing in the Philippines.

Cloud 9 to host world’s best: Philippines joins 2026 WSL championship tour

The World Surf League has officially designated the iconic Cloud 9 break in Siargao, Philippines, as a stop on the 2026 Championship Tour. Running from October 31 to November 10, this addition elevates the Philippines Pro to elite status for the 2026 and 2027 seasons, promising world-class barrel surfing for the world's top athletes.

Key takeaways

  • Cloud 9 in Siargao is now an official stop on the 2026 WSL Championship Tour.
  • The event is scheduled for October 31 to November 10, 2026.
  • The Philippines Pro has been upgraded from a QS 6,000 event to a CT-level competition.
  • Local wildcards will be determined through a dedicated trials event.

A new era for Philippine surfing

The inclusion of Cloud 9 on the World Surf League Championship Tour marks a historic milestone for surfing in the Philippines. Known for its world-class right-hand barrels, the break at Siargao has long been a favorite among international surfers. By elevating the Philippines Pro from a Qualifying Series event to a Championship Tour stop, the WSL recognizes both the exceptional quality of the waves and the nation's deep-rooted surfing culture. This partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission is expected to inspire a new generation of local athletes and showcase the island's beauty to a global audience.

Strategic calendar adjustments

The addition of the Philippines stop is part of a broader strategy to ensure the integrity of the 2026 season. The WSL aims to deliver at least 12 events throughout the year, and including Cloud 9 provides a reliable contingency should other locations face scheduling difficulties. To accommodate this new event, the league has adjusted the dates for the MEO Rip Curl Pro in Portugal and the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro.

The road to the pipe masters

As the season enters its final stages, the competition at Cloud 9 will be critical for those vying for the World Title. The event will feature a reduced field of 24 men and 16 women, making every heat essential for securing ranking points. Before the main event kicks off, local surfers will have the opportunity to earn their spots through an exclusive trials competition at Cloud 9, ensuring that home-grown talent is represented on the world stage.

Sources