Former World Junior Champ Vasco Ribeiro’s feel good redemption crushed by cruel International Surfing Assoc.

"The WSL has revisited its position based on information and pressure now presented by the ISA."

It has been lightly difficult, these days, to find rays of light in professional competitive surfing’s darkness. John John vacating the tour, Gabriel Medina unable to fly, Filipe Toledo flailing in the pool after mastering Pipeline etc. The elation, therefore, over former World Junior Champion Vasco Ribeiro’s return to the arena at the Qualifying Series Taghazout Bay Pro in Morocco can certainly be understood.

The one-time future of Portuguese surfing was on a run in in late teens, early 20s, though was unfortunately derailed after he refused a drug test administered by the International Surfing Association’s doping control officer in 2022. He was handed a three year ban, beginning in 2023.

Ribeiro chalked the bad business up to addiction issues plus not understanding the seriousness of the drug tests, though was on the road to redemption, the World Surf League allowing him to compete again. “I recently realized that my suspension only applies to ISA and Olympic contests,” he told Stab Magazine, “so I can take part in other competitions, including the WSL. I spoke to my family and my lawyer and decided to go ahead.”

A feel good comeback story that surf fans so desperately craved.

After securing his place in the Taghazout draw, Ribeiro was busily practicing his craft when he was informed that the International Surfing Association had stepped in to squish the redemption. Taking to Instagram, the 30-year-old explained:

Unfortunately, today I won’t bring you the news I was hoping to give.

It was with great surprise and disappointment that I received the news that, despite having had formal confirmation from the World Surf League (WSL) that I could return to competition, I was prevented from competing at Pro Taghazout Bay a few hours before the start of the event.

WSL, as an independent entity of the International Surfing Association (ISA), had assured it could at this event. However, in a last-minute decision with no chance of response, the WSL has revisited its position based on information and pressure now presented by the ISA.

At this stage, I always respect the decisions of the regulatory entities and have fulfilled all conditions required for my return. So it’s difficult to accept a sudden change of criteria with no clear explanations and so few hours away from the championship. This situation has a big impact on my career and also my personal life. All the preparation and dedication for this moment has been abruptly put into account, which makes everything even harder to accept.

Despite the frustration, I’m still focused on the future and hopeful that everything will be resolved quickly. Thank you all for your unconditional support – we are moving forward!

Professional competitive surfers were quick to jump into Ribiero’s feed in attempts to buoy the downbeat fella. Leonardo Fioravanti sharing, “The moment will come by bro and it will be so incredible for everyone to watch.” Jason Andre adding Portuguese blessings.

But how does this make you feel about the evil, grace-less ISA?

Will you boo and hiss its president Fernando Aguerre the next time you spot him?

Certainly recommended.