The legendary Praia do Norte in Nazaré, Portugal, once again lived up to its fearsome reputation as the TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge was called on for the 2025/2026 season. Surfers braved colossal waves, some estimated to be between 40-60 feet, in a thrilling display of skill, courage, and the raw power of the ocean.
Key Takeaways
- The TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge was officially greenlit by the WSL, with competition commencing on December 13th.
- A historic swell, predicted to reach 40-60 feet, created challenging yet epic conditions.
- The unique tow-in format saw nine two-person teams compete for top honors.
A Swell of Historic Proportions
The forecast for the TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge was nothing short of extraordinary, with predictions of "40-60 foot" waves and a swell described as potentially historic. Veteran big wave surfer Andrew "Cotty" Cotton remarked on the rarity of such charts, stating, "I don’t think I’ve seen charts like this for probably, like, four or five years. Scared but ready."
The swell, generated by a powerful NW storm, was expected to peak overnight Friday and into Saturday morning, with waves potentially reaching 50-70 feet before settling into the 40-60 foot range throughout Saturday. Moderate northeasterly winds were anticipated, potentially shifting to cross-offshore conditions later in the day.
Competition Format and Champions
The TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge employs a distinct tow-in format, with surfers competing in nine two-person teams. Awards are presented for Men’s Best Performance, Women’s Best Performance, and Best Team Performance, based on the combined scores of a team’s two best rides.
Highlights from the event showcased incredible rides and brutal wipeouts, defining a day of intense big wave surfing. Champions were crowned, with Justine Dupont securing back-to-back individual wins, solidifying her dominance in the big wave scene. Team Nic von Rupp/Clemente Roseyro also achieved consecutive team victories, etching their names into Nazaré legend. Lucas Chianca reasserted his presence on the podium, demonstrating his fearless approach to the massive waves.
Top Moments and Future Prospects
The event delivered several unforgettable moments, highlighting fearless commitment, exceptional wave selection, and championship-level teamwork. From spectacular rides to dramatic wipeouts, the competition at Praia do Norte was a testament to the athletes’ bravery and skill.
While the 2025/2026 event has concluded, the TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge continues to be a pinnacle event in big wave surfing, drawing the world’s best to face one of the planet’s most formidable waves.
Sources
- TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge 2025/26 highlights, Red Bull.
- ‘Absolutely Giant’: 60ft Waves Incoming for Nazaré Big Wave Challenge, SURFER Magazine.
- Nazaré goes XXXL as a historic swell unleashes on the TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge | Dawn Patrol, World Surf League.
- Highlights: All the action from TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge 2025/2026, World Surf League.
- Top 5 Moments: TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge 2025/2026, World Surf League.
