At just a few days from the start of the 2026 Championship Tour season, Marco Mignot is approaching his second year among the world elite with ambition and clarity. Crowned Rookie of the Year in 2025, the French surfer now embraces a clear objective: aiming for the world title. Balancing personal progress, pressure management, and structured support, he outlines his state of mind before diving back into competition.
The off-season has been very long since the last CT in August last year. What did you do during the 7 months? Honestly, it was the longest off-season I have ever had in my life, even in my entire surfing career. I think it was a good time to relax, reflect on what I have done in my career and what I need to improve. Spending time with my family is important. All of this really helped me recharge for my future goals. It was a great time to work on my weaknesses and arrive for the season in the best version of myself.
You approach this new CT season with the Rookie of the Year status. What is your mindset coming in? Rookie of the Year was very important because it’s an achievement that only happens once in a career. Being able to achieve it was a sign that I am ready and confident in myself. But now, it’s a new season, a new goal. I left that behind in 2025. In 2026, I am looking for something bigger.
Looking back, what was the most memorable moment for you in your first CT season? Beating Jordy Smith at his home, J-Bay, was the most unforgettable moment for me. It was a very powerful moment. My little brother, my father, my coach were all there. It’s a memory I will never forget.
Being named Rookie of the Year is a strong recognition. Does it change anything in your approach or how others perceive you on the circuit? Of course, people remember it and it changes their perception. They think, “Oh yeah, he has the level.” It’s a good status, it’s cool to have it in my list of achievements. But I don’t focus on that. I stay focused on what I think of myself, on my own opinions. I remain true to myself. I don’t change for others, I only change to improve.
Do you feel a different kind of pressure this year, more about confirming rather than discovering? The pressure will always be there. The difference between a hero and a loser is the ability to handle it. I have worked a lot on that, mentally. You can’t deny the pressure, it’s there, but you have to know how to manage it.
:quality(80)/outremer%2F2026%2F03%2F28%2F69c751b55ef19309251202.png "The surf community pays tribute to two young riders who died in a car accident.")
