The 2025-26 TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge delivered colossal waves and dramatic moments, ultimately crowning Lucas Chianca of Brazil and Justine Dupont of France as individual champions. Despite challenging conditions including fog and a power outage, the event managed to complete one round, showcasing the incredible skill and bravery of big wave surfers.
Key Takeaways
- Lucas Chianca (BRA) and Justine Dupont (FRA) secured individual titles.
- Nic von Rupp (POR) and Clement Roseyro (FRA) won the team competition.
- The event was shortened to one round due to fog and a power outage, impacting safety and daylight.
- Surfers faced waves exceeding 45 feet, with some experiencing significant wipeouts.
A Day of Colossal Waves and Challenges
The highly anticipated TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge commenced amidst massive swells, with waves reaching over 60 feet. However, the event faced significant delays due to thick fog and a subsequent power outage affecting event operations. Consequently, the World Surf League (WSL) made the difficult decision to conclude the competition after the first round, prioritizing surfer safety and the integrity of the competition.
Individual Champions Emerge
Brazil’s Lucas Chianca delivered a standout performance, earning the highest two-wave score in the men’s division. Despite a harrowing wipeout that required immediate rescue, Chianca demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill. "That was a heavy moment for sure," Chianca commented after the event, expressing gratitude to the safety team for saving his life. France’s Justine Dupont continued her dominance in the women’s field, securing her second consecutive best female performance win at Nazaré, less than two years after the birth of her son.
Team Triumph and Notable Performances
Portugal’s Nic von Rupp and France’s Clement Roseyro claimed the Best Team Performance award for the second year in a row. Their consistent performance in the challenging conditions highlighted their expertise at Praia do Norte. Von Rupp described his ride as potentially the "line of his life," while Roseyro expressed joy at the successful, albeit shortened, competition.
Event Wrap-Up and Future Outlook
Although the event could not proceed beyond the first round, the WSL President for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Francisco Spinola, acknowledged the athletes’ incredible performances and the challenging nature of the day. The awards were presented based on the results from the completed round, celebrating the bravery and skill displayed by all participants in the face of extreme conditions.
Sources
- Nazaré Mayhem: Power Outage & 60-Foot Surf at Nazaré Challenge, SURFER Magazine.
- TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge 2025/26 highlights, Red Bull.
- TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge 2025/26 highlights, Red Bull.
- The Nazaré Big Wave Challenge Is Officially a Go, The Inertia.
- Brazil’s Lucas Chianca, France’s Justine Dupont win titles in Nazaré, Portugal, Santa Cruz Sentinel.
