John John Florence Announces Return to 2026 WSL Championship Tour

Three-time World Champion John John Florence confirms his return to the 2026 WSL Championship Tour, having received a Season Wildcard after a year off to focus on family and exploration.

John John Florence Announces Return to 2026 WSL Championship Tour

After a year-long hiatus, three-time World Champion John John Florence is set to rejoin the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour for the 2026 season. The announcement confirms his return to full-time competition, much to the excitement of the surfing world. Florence took 2025 off to focus on family and explore new waves.

Key Takeaways

  • John John Florence will compete full-time on the 2026 WSL Championship Tour.
  • He has been granted a WSL Season Wildcard for his return.
  • The 2026 season begins at Bells Beach, Australia, and concludes at the Pipe Masters in Hawaii.

A Champion's Break

Florence, who secured his third world title in 2024, opted to take the 2025 season off. This decision allowed him to spend valuable time with his wife, Lauryn, and their one-year-old son, Darwin, while pursuing surf adventures in the South Pacific aboard a sailboat. This period of exploration was a long-held dream for the family.

Return to Competition

The WSL has awarded Florence, now 33, a Season Wildcard, ensuring his participation in every event of the 2026 Championship Tour. The tour is scheduled to kick off on April 1, 2026, at the iconic Bells Beach in Australia and will culminate in December with the Pipe Masters on his home turf in Hawaii. Florence expressed his gratitude for the wildcard, emphasizing the importance of this time with his family.

A Storied Career

Florence's career has been marked by remarkable achievements, including back-to-back world titles in 2016 and 2017. After several years hampered by injuries, his triumphant return to the top in 2024 was widely celebrated. He is renowned for his exceptional skill, having won multiple awards and accolades, including the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational and the World Title in the same season. His influence on the sport began early, entering the CT at 18 and quickly establishing himself as a formidable competitor and a fan favorite.

Looking Ahead

Florence's return to the CT signifies a new chapter in his illustrious career. The 2026 season promises to be a compelling one, with the tour beginning and ending at locations where Florence has previously found success. His ongoing projects, including a filming series with YETI, suggest that his passion for surfing extends beyond the competitive arena.

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