The World Surf League (WSL) has officially announced its 2025 Championship Tour schedule, introducing a groundbreaking new venue in Abu Dhabi. This marks a significant milestone as it will be the first time the WSL hosts an event in the Middle East, showcasing the latest in wave technology and expanding the sport’s global reach.
Key Takeaways
- New Venue: Surf Abu Dhabi, an artificial wave pool, will host its first WSL event from February 14-16, 2025.
- Tour Highlights: The tour will kick off at the Banzai Pipeline in Hawaii and conclude with the finals in Fiji.
- Expanded Coverage: ESPN will provide enhanced live coverage across the U.S. and Latin America.
New Venue: Surf Abu Dhabi
Surf Abu Dhabi, located on Hudayriyat Island, is set to become a premier destination for competitive surfing. The facility features cutting-edge wave technology developed by the Kelly Slater Wave Company, promising consistent and high-quality waves for competitors.
- Facility Size: 75,000 square meters (807,300 square feet)
- Wave Technology: Similar to the WSL Surf Ranch in California, designed to create perfect waves for surfers.
WSL CEO Ryan Crosby expressed excitement about the potential of Surf Abu Dhabi, stating, "Both the evolving wave technology and the region itself present interesting opportunities for the WSL."
2025 Championship Tour Schedule
The 2025 Championship Tour will consist of 11 events, starting in Hawaii and featuring a mix of iconic surf locations. Here’s a breakdown of the schedule:
- Banzai Pipeline, Hawaii: January 27 – February 8
- Surf Abu Dhabi, UAE: February 14 – 16
- Peniche, Portugal: March 15 – 25
- Punta Roca, El Salvador: April 2 – 12
- Bells Beach, Australia: April 18 – 28
- Snapper Rocks, Australia: May 3 – 13
- Margaret River, Australia: May 17 – 27 (mid-season cut)
- Lower Trestles, California: June 9 – 17
- Saquarema, Brazil: June 21 – 29
- Jeffreys Bay, South Africa: July 11 – 20
- Teahupo’o, Tahiti: August 7 – 16
- WSL Finals, Cloudbreak, Fiji: August 27 – September 4
Expanded Coverage and Accessibility
In a move to enhance viewer engagement, the WSL has renewed its partnership with ESPN, expanding coverage to include Latin America. This will allow fans in countries like Mexico, Peru, and Argentina to access live events through Disney+.
- Coverage Details: All 12 Championship Tour events will be available live, with highlight shows airing on ESPN2.
- Global Reach: This expansion aims to bring surfing to a broader audience, promoting the sport’s growth worldwide.
Conclusion
The 2025 WSL Championship Tour promises to be an exhilarating season, with the introduction of Surf Abu Dhabi as a new venue and expanded global coverage. As the world’s best surfers prepare to compete in this innovative setting, fans can look forward to a thrilling showcase of talent and technology in the sport of surfing.
Sources
- WSL headed to Abu Dhabi for new event in ‘25, Sports Business Journal.
- Abu Dhabi wave pool added as new venue on World Surf League 2025 tour | Sport News, Al Jazeera.
- Surf Abu Dhabi Confirmed as New Venue on World Surf League 2025 Championship Tour, Surf Park Central.
- City Life Org – Surf Abu Dhabi Pro To Host Stop No. 2 of WSL Championship Tour From February 14 – 16, City Life Org.
- ESPN, WSL Announce Expanded 2025 Championship Tour Coverage, The Inertia.
