Hawaiian Surf Legends John John Florence and Carissa Moore Set for 2026 WSL Championship Tour Return

Hawaiian surfing legends John John Florence and Carissa Moore are returning to the WSL Championship Tour in 2026 after taking time off for family. Both have received wildcards for the upcoming season.

Hawaiian Surf Legends John John Florence and Carissa Moore Set for 2026 WSL Championship Tour Return

Two titans of professional surfing, John John Florence and Carissa Moore, are making a highly anticipated return to the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour for the 2026 season. Both Hawaiian powerhouses have been granted full-season wildcards, signaling their intent to compete at the highest level once again after taking time away for family and personal pursuits.

Key Takeaways

  • John John Florence and Carissa Moore will compete on the 2026 WSL Championship Tour.
  • Both surfers received full-season wildcard entries.
  • Florence took the 2025 season off to focus on family and explore new surf spots.
  • Moore stepped away to start a family and has welcomed a daughter.
  • The 2026 season kicks off at Bells Beach, Australia, and concludes at the Pipe Masters in Hawaii.

Florence's Comeback

Three-time men's world champion John John Florence will rejoin the WSL Championship Tour in 2026. Florence, who celebrated a world title in 2024 and competed in the Paris Olympics, opted to take the 2025 season off to spend time with his wife, Lauryn, and their young son, Darwin. During his hiatus, he explored new surf destinations in the South Pacific. Florence expressed his gratitude for the wildcard, stating that the time with his family and the opportunity to surf new waves has been a dream.

Moore's Return to Competition

Five-time women's world champion and Olympic gold medalist Carissa Moore is also set to return to the tour in 2026. Moore had announced her intention to step back from full-time competition in early 2024 to start a family. She and her husband, Luke Untermann, welcomed their daughter, ‘Olena, in February. Moore, who is regarded as one of the most consistent performers in CT history, is excited to put her jersey back on and compete again. She aims to inspire her daughter and other women to pursue their dreams regardless of life's evolving stages.

The 2026 Season

The 50th anniversary of the Championship Tour is scheduled to commence on April 1, 2026, at the iconic Bells Beach in Victoria, Australia. The season will culminate on Oahu's North Shore with the prestigious Pipe Masters in December, bringing the competition full circle to Florence's and Moore's home turf.

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