The World Surf League (WSL) is gearing up for an exciting 2025 season, marked by significant new partnerships and expanded media coverage. This strategic expansion aims to bring the thrill of professional surfing to a wider global audience, enhancing the fan experience both on and off the water.
Expanded Media Reach Through ESPN and Disney+
The WSL has announced a major expansion of its media rights agreement with ESPN, bringing live coverage of the 2025 Championship Tour (CT) to ESPN+ in the United States and Disney+ across Latin America and the Caribbean. This collaboration will ensure that all twelve CT competitions and the Lexus US Open of Surfing Challenger Series event are accessible on these streaming platforms. Additionally, the popular highlight show, WSL Inside Pro Surfing, will continue its run on ESPN2 and be available on-demand via ESPN+ and Disney+.
Key Takeaways
- Broader Audience Access: Live CT events and highlight shows will be available on ESPN+ and Disney+ in key international markets.
- Enhanced Content: The partnership promises more ways for fans to engage with the sport.
Lexus Deepens Commitment as a Major Partner
Lexus has significantly expanded its multi-year partnership with the WSL, taking on title sponsorship for five major events in 2025: the WSL Awards, Pipe Pro, Trestle Pro, US Open of Surfing, and the WSL Finals. This builds on their role as the Official Automotive Partner of the WSL in North America. Lexus will also extend its presence to Fiji for the WSL Finals. To celebrate this enhanced collaboration, Lexus unveiled the concept luxury utility vehicle, the Lexus Surf LX, designed with surf culture in mind, featuring specialized storage for surf gear and a distinctive coastal aesthetic.
Corona Cero Joins as Global No-Alcohol Beer Sponsor
In a landmark move, Corona Cero has become the official global no-alcohol beer sponsor of the WSL, extending a four-year partnership. This marks the league’s first global sponsorship with a no-alcohol beer brand. The partnership emphasizes moderation and relaxation, aligning with the laid-back spirit of surfing. Corona Cero will be integrated into WSL events, offering more choices for athletes and fans, and will implement its "Relaxation Clause" in athlete contracts, ensuring dedicated time for rest and unwinding.
New and Returning Partners Bolster the 2025 Season
The 2025 WSL Championship Tour season is set to be an unforgettable one, supported by a robust lineup of new and returning partners. These collaborations enhance the fan experience through expanded broadcasts, innovative technology, and engaging activations. Notable partners include Red Bull, YETI, Apple, and Amazon’s eero, which will improve Wi-Fi connectivity at key events. The Lexus US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach will feature a host of on-site activations from brands like Neutrogena, NO CAP! Soda Pop, and Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants, alongside musical performances and offerings from Pacifico and 805 Beer.
Sources
- New and Returning Partners for 2025 Lexus US Open of Surfing Presented by Pacifico, World Surf League.
- Corona Cero Becomes the Official Global Beer Sponsor of the World Surf League in a Landmark Partnership |
World Surf League, World Surf League. - ESPN and World Surf League Expand 2025 Championship Tour Coverage to ESPN+ in the US, and Disney+ in LATAM
and Caribbean, World Surf League. - New and Returning Partners Join 2025 WSL Championship Tour Season, World Surf League.
- Lexus Rides the Wave: Announces Multi-Year Partnership with World Surf League, World Surf League.
