KUDA HURAA, Republic of Maldives—May 21, 2026—Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa has confirmed the return of the Surfing Champions Trophy, taking place from September 4 to 11, 2026 at the legendary Sultans surf break.

Now entering its 14th edition, the Surfing Champions Trophy is one of the most distinctive events on the international surf calendar: an invitation-only contest that brings together some of the sport's most accomplished names to compete across three board disciplines—single fin, twin fin and thruster—in the crystalline waters of the Maldives.

Set against the backdrop of Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, the event combines elite competition with the relaxed intimacy of a private island gathering. Competitors, judges, guests and surf enthusiasts share the same garden-island base, creating a rare atmosphere where world-class sport meets effortless Maldivian luxury. 

A Legacy of Surfing Greats

Launched in 2011, the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy has reimagined the traditional surf contest format by celebrating versatility, style and heritage across multiple board categories.

Since its debut, Sultans has welcomed an extraordinary roster of surfing talent. The inaugural event saw Mark Occhilupo win all three divisions before taking the Grand Champions Final against world longboard champion Josh Constable. Subsequent champions have included Damien Hardman, Taylor Knox, Dave “Rasta” Rastovich, Shane Dorian, Taj Burrow, Josh Kerr, Kelly Slater, Joel Parkinson and, most recently, Michel Bourez.

Across 13 editions, the event has also attracted some of the most influential figures in surf culture, including Carissa Moore, Maya Gabeira, Tom Curren, Rob Machado, Layne Beachley, Bethany Hamilton, Mikey February, Jeremy Flores and Jadson André.

Building on an Unforgettable 2025 Edition

The 2025 Surfing Champions Trophy delivered one of the most dramatic finishes in the event's history, with Tahitian powerhouse Michel Bourez claiming victory despite sustaining a hamstring injury during the twin fin division. Bourez went on to win both the thruster division and the Grand Champions Final, sealing the title with the event's only perfect 10 in the final minute.

The 2025 field also featured Australian Olympian Owen Wright, Brazil's Jesse Mendes, free-surfing pioneer Craig Anderson and Maldivian wildcard Ismail “Smiley” Rasheed.

The 2026 competitor line-up will be announced in stages over the coming months.

Guest Access Through the Surf's Up Package

For guests who want to experience the event beyond the shoreline, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa offers the Surf's Up package, designed for both beginners and experienced surfers.

The package includes four days of expert coaching with Tropicsurf professionals, guided boat trips to renowned Maldivian breaks, daily yoga, a post-surf massage at ŪRJĀ Naturopathy Island, round-trip speedboat transfers, daily breakfast and surf equipment.

During event week, guests can also enjoy a series of Four Seasons cocktail gatherings around the island, offering opportunities to connect with competitors, recap the day's heats and experience the celebratory spirit that has become a signature of the Surfing Champions Trophy.

Event Details

Event: Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2026
Dates: September 4 to 11, 2026
Location: Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa and Sultans surf break
Format: Invitation-only competition across single fin, twin fin and thruster divisions

Website: surfingchampionstrophy.com

To reserve a stay during the 2026 Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy or to enquire about the Surf's Up package, contact reservations.mal@fourseasons.com or call +960 66 00 888.