The TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge 2025/2026 concluded on December 13, 2025, after a day of colossal waves and incredible performances at Praia do Norte, Portugal. Despite facing challenges including fog delays and a power outage, the world’s elite big wave surfers showcased their bravery and skill on swells reaching up to 60 feet.
Key Takeaways
- Lucas Chianca secured the Men’s Best Performance award.
- Justine Dupont claimed the Women’s Best Performance award for the second consecutive year.
- The team of Nic von Rupp and Clement Roseyro won the Best Team Performance award for the second year running.
- The event was cut short after the first round due to fading daylight and technical difficulties, with awards based on initial results.
A Day of Colossal Waves and Courage
The competition window for the 2025/2026 TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge opened on November 1, 2025, and the perfect conditions finally arrived on December 13th. Praia do Norte, renowned for its massive waves generated by a deep-water canyon, delivered spectacular rides. The tow-in format saw nine teams, each with a surfer and a jet ski driver, battling for supremacy.
Champions Emerge Amidst Challenges
Lucas Chianca, nicknamed "Chumbo," reasserted his dominance by winning the Men’s Best Performance. His performance included navigating incredibly powerful waves, even experiencing a heavy wipeout that required a rescue. "That was a heavy moment for sure," Chianca commented, thanking Sebastian Steudtner for his assistance.
Justine Dupont continued her reign in the women’s division, earning her second consecutive Best Female Performance award. Her dedication and skill were evident, especially less than two years after the birth of her son. "It was a crazy day, and I’m so happy with the win," Dupont stated.
Portugal’s Nic von Rupp and France’s Clement Roseyro proved their teamwork once again, clinching the Best Team Performance award for the second year in a row. They showcased exceptional synergy, with von Rupp describing one of his rides as the "line of his life."
Event Interruption and Safety First
The day was not without its hurdles. Thick fog delayed the start, and a power outage further impacted the schedule. Ultimately, the WSL Tours & Competitions team made the difficult decision to conclude the event after the first round. Francisco Spinola, WSL President for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, emphasized that safety and competition integrity were paramount in their decision.
Despite the early finish, the performances witnessed in the first round were extraordinary, solidifying the TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge’s status as a premier event in big wave surfing.
Sources
- TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge 2025, World Surf League.
- TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge Competition Window Opens Today, World Surf League.
- Highlights: All the action from TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge 2025/2026, World Surf League.
- Nazaré Mayhem: Power Outage & 60-Foot Surf at Nazaré Challenge, SURFER Magazine.
