The Surfing Champions Trophy is returning to the Maldives, with the 14th edition set to take place at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa from 4th to 11th September 2026.

Held at the famous Sultans break, the invitation-only competition brings some of the biggest names in surfing together for a week of high-level competition, island experiences and time in the Indian Ocean.

The contest is unique in its format, with surfers competing across three board disciplines: single fin, twin fin and thruster. The different formats challenge competitors to adapt their technique and style while showcasing different eras of surfing. The 2026 line-up is already taking shape, with Kai Lenny, Mason Ho and Victor Bernardo among the first surfers confirmed to return to Sultans. More names are expected to be announced in the coming months.

Where Surfing Legends Meet

The Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy began in 2011, bringing a different approach to competitive surfing. Since then, the event has attracted some of the sport's most recognised names to Kuda Huraa. The list of past champions includes Mark Occhilupo, Damien Hardman, Taylor Knox, Dave "Rasta" Rastovich, Shane Dorian, Taj Burrow, Josh Kerr, Kelly Slater and Joel Parkinson. Taj Burrow also claimed his third title in 2024.

Over the years, the event has welcomed surfing stars including Carissa Moore, Maya Gabeira, Tom Curren, Rob Machado, Layne Beachley, Bethany Hamilton, Mikey February, Jeremy Flores and Jadson Andre.

A Memorable 2025 Edition

The 2025 competition delivered one of the event's most dramatic moments when Michel Bourez competed despite an injury and went on to win the thruster division and grand final. Bourez had torn his hamstring during the twin fin division but returned just 24 hours later. He also scored the event's only perfect 10 in the final minute of the grand final.

Owen Wright, Jesse Mendes, Craig Anderson and Maldivian wildcard Ismail "Smiley" Rasheed were also part of the 2025 field.

Surf Alongside the Pros

For guests who want to experience the Maldives' surf culture themselves, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa offers its Surf's Up package.

The experience includes four days of expert coaching with Tropicsurf professionals, guided boat trips to surf breaks, daily yoga, a post-surf massage at ŪRJĀ Naturopathy Island, round-trip speedboat transfers, daily breakfast and surf equipment. The week also features Four Seasons cocktail parties at different locations around the island, giving guests opportunities to relax, enjoy specialty cocktails and meet surfers and other guests.

The 2026 competitor line-up will be announced in stages over the coming months, adding to the anticipation around this year's Surfing Champions Trophy. Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa is set to once again bring together surfing, luxury hospitality and the natural beauty of the Maldives for a week dedicated to the sport.