John John Florence Postpones Competitive Return, Embraces Extended Family and Adventure Break

Three-time World Surf League champion John John Florence announces he will defer his 2026 competitive return to focus on family and global adventures, with Ramzi Boukhiam receiving the wildcard.

John John Florence Postpones Competitive Return, Embraces Extended Family and Adventure Break

Three-time World Surf League champion John John Florence has announced he will defer his return to the Championship Tour for another year, extending his break from full-time competition. The decision, confirmed by the WSL, allows Florence to continue prioritizing his family and pursuing global adventures.

Key Takeaways

  • John John Florence will not compete on the 2026 WSL Championship Tour.
  • He has been granted a WSL Season Wildcard but has chosen to defer it.
  • Florence aims to focus on family, travel, and personal growth as a surfer and father.
  • Ramzi Boukhiam will receive the WSL Season Wildcard in Florence's place.

A Deeper Dive Into Florence's Decision

Florence, who initially took the 2025 season off to spend time with his young family and explore new surf destinations, has opted to extend this hiatus. He expressed that this period has confirmed his current priorities, stating, "It really confirmed for us that this is our dream right now. We've decided to continue in 2026 with the goal of hopefully making a full lap of the world. I want to become a better surfer; I want to become the best father I can be and combine it all with nonstop adventure and curiosity."

This decision means Florence will not be competing full-time on the tour in 2026. He conveyed his gratitude to the WSL for their support and the wildcard opportunity, emphasizing that this is not a retirement but a chosen path for the present. His time away has involved exploring the South Pacific in a sailboat with his wife Lauryn and young son Darwin, discovering new ways of living and finding waves suitable for all three.

Wildcard Reassignment and Tour Outlook

With Florence deferring his wildcard, the WSL has awarded the Season Wildcard to Ramzi Boukhiam of Morocco. Boukhiam missed the latter half of the 2025 season due to a significant injury sustained at Bells Beach. He expressed his excitement to return to the CT, calling it a testament to his perseverance through recovery.

The 2026 WSL Championship Tour is set to mark the 50th anniversary of the World Tour. The season will feature an expanded women's field and a streamlined format, removing non-elimination rounds. The 12-stop schedule will commence on April 1 at the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach in Australia and conclude in Hawai'i with the Pipe Masters in December.

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