Jeffreys Bay Out, New Zealand In

Byron Lukas

The World Surf League has confirmed Jeffreys Bay will not appear on the 2026 Championship Tour calendar. Aotearoa, New Zealand, will join the tour as a new stop, with the New Zealand Pro scheduled to run from 15 to 25 May at Manu Bay in Raglan.

The change forms part of a revised 12-event Championship Tour season and coincides with the 50th year of the World Surf League World Tour.

Raglan added as a prime left-hand point

Manu Bay, Raglan, is widely regarded as one of the world’s best left-hand point breaks. Located on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island, the wave is known for its long, rippable walls and consistency during the autumn swell window.

The New Zealand Pro will serve as stop four on the 2026 Championship Tour and is expected to deliver high-performance conditions during a reliable period of the season.

WSL CEO Ryan Crosby says the addition strengthens the overall tour offering. He notes the location brings a high-quality left-hand wave to the schedule, supported by strong backing from the New Zealand Government as the sport marks a major milestone year.

Surfers welcome a long-awaited left

The inclusion of Raglan has been well-received by athletes. Reigning World Champion Yago Dora says the tour has needed a rippable left for some time and believes the addition brings balance to the schedule.

Women’s World Champion Molly Picklum agrees, saying the wave allows her to fully showcase her backside surfing, something not often possible on the current tour lineup.

Jeffreys Bay dropped from the 2026 calendar

To maintain a 12-event Championship Tour format, Jeffreys Bay has been removed for 2026. The South African stop has long been regarded as one of the best waves in the world and a cornerstone of competitive surfing history.

Crosby acknowledges the significance of the decision and the deep connection between the WSL and the Jeffreys Bay community. He says the league worked hard to keep the event viable, but limited financial support made it unsustainable for the coming season.

A focus on long-term sustainability

The WSL says the decision reflects a broader strategy focused on long-term stability and growth. Maintaining a sustainable global tour requires difficult choices that prioritise the health of the overall business model.

With Raglan joining the schedule, New Zealand is set to host the largest surfing event ever staged in the country, adding a new chapter to the Championship Tour while marking a historic year for the sport.