"We have worked closely with the IOC, the athletes, and other stakeholders to deliver a clear and fair process.”
The cold war between the International Surfing Association and World Surf League surfers has exploded hot, in recent days, with both sides digging in. At issue, an Olympic qualification rules change which slashes the number of WSL surfers in half and cedes much power to the ISA and its World Surf Games, held in dynamic El Salvador, a country which boasts the “world’s coolest dictator” in Nayib Bukele.
In year’s past, WSL surfers would have to surf in the ISA’s World Surfing Games during Olympic years but only a certain amount of heats. Each would leave directly, possibly embarrassing ISA’s longtime chief Fernando Aguerre.
Now, they will have to be very serious about repechage each and every year.
WSL surfers became visibly upset, taking to social media to decry the move.
Current men’s champ Yago Dora declaring, “Complete disrespect on the way you guys conducted this absolutely sad for our sport and future generations of surfers.”
Italy’s Leonardo Fioravanti adding, Completely disagree with this qualification system. The qualification system in the last 2 Olympics worked perfect. Having 10 surfers from the @wsl world tour was the best way to make sure the best surfers in the world made it to the Olympics. Now the 2027 WSL world champion isn’t event guaranteed to compete in the Olympics To be clear, on behalf of the WSL surfers, we tried to communicate with the ISA to find the best solution for everyone but the ISA was not willing to work with any of the WSL surfers. I don’t think this is the way to move forward and make our sport better not only for our generation but for future generations.
Aguerre, for his part, clearly peeved at the indulgence. While the ISA has yet to release an official statement about the strife, the very colorful former owner of Reef sandals shared, “The updates to the qualification system reflect the ISA’s dedication to making sure the world’s best surfers have the best possible opportunity to earn their place at LA28. We have worked closely with the IOC, the athletes, and other stakeholders to deliver a clear and fair process.”
But do you think hidden surfing gems are out there, in the world, only needing a fair shake to shine or are they all, literally, on the WSL already and should the Championship Tour basically be the qualifiers?
Crazy days.