The World Surf League (WSL) has officially announced the schedule for the 2025 Championship Tour, featuring 12 thrilling events across nine countries. With elite surfers from around the globe competing for the coveted world title, this season promises to be one of the most exciting yet.
Key Takeaways
- 12 Events Across 9 Countries: The tour will visit iconic surf locations, including Fiji, Portugal, and the USA.
- New Streaming Deal: WSL has renewed its partnership with ESPN, expanding coverage to Latin America.
- Defending Champions: Caitlin Simmers aims to defend her title, while a new men’s champion is expected due to John John Florence’s retirement.
Event Schedule
The 2025 Championship Tour will feature the following events:
| Event | Location | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Lexus Pipe Pro | Oahu, Hawaii, USA | Jan. 27 – Feb. 8 |
| Surf Abu Dhabi Pro | Hudayriat Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE | Feb. 14 – 16 |
| MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal | Supertubos, Peniche, Portugal | Mar. 15 – 25 |
| Surf City El Salvador Pro | Punta Roca, La Libertad, El Salvador | Apr. 2 – 12 |
| Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach | Bells Beach, Victoria, Australia | Apr. 18 – 28 |
| Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro | Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia | May 3 – 13 |
| Western Australia Margaret River Pro | Margaret River, Western Australia | May 17 – 27 |
| Trestles Pro | San Clemente, California, USA | Jun. 9 – 17 |
| Vivo Rio Pro | Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | Jun. 21 – 29 |
| JBay Open | Jeffreys Bay, Eastern Cape, South Africa | Jul. 11 – 20 |
| Tahiti Pro | Teahupo’o, Tahiti | Aug. 7 – 16 |
| WSL Finals Fiji | Cloudbreak, Fiji | Aug. 27 – Sep. 4 |
Competition Format
The competition will feature:
- Men’s Division: 36 competitors, including the top 22 from last year’s rankings and 10 from the Challenger Series.
- Women’s Division: 18 competitors, with the top 10 from 2024 and 5 from the Challenger Series.
At the season’s midpoint, the field will be narrowed to 24 men and 12 women, with the final showdown featuring the top five surfers from each division.
New Streaming Opportunities
In a significant move, the WSL has renewed its streaming agreement with ESPN, allowing fans to catch all the action live. The deal includes:
- ESPN+: Available for U.S. viewers.
- Disney+: Coverage in Latin America, excluding Brazil, El Salvador, and Costa Rica.
This partnership aims to enhance accessibility for fans, showcasing the world’s best surfers across various platforms.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 Championship Tour approaches, anticipation builds among fans and competitors alike. With a mix of seasoned champions and rising stars, this season is set to deliver unforgettable moments and fierce competition on the waves.
