A few days ago, we discussed a possible major turning point for Olympic surfing with the reform of qualifications for the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Our article on the topic: Surfing at the 2028 Olympics: A Reform that Changes Everything. The idea? Drastically reduce the role of the Championship Tour (CT) of the World Surf League (WSL) in favor of competitions organized by the International Surfing Association (ISA). An announcement that, while aimed at balancing the chances and intensifying the competition, has not been universally well-received. Behind the scenes and on social media, discontent is rising among some of the biggest names in the circuit.
Controversial Reform: Less CT, More ISA
In summary, the ISA’s proposal would limit five spots per gender via the CT, with a potential restriction to one surfer per country, whereas in previous cycles (Tokyo 2020, Paris 2024) a much larger part was awarded through the final CT rankings. The stated goal was to give more weight to the ISA World Surfing Games, providing an opportunity for emerging nations and intensifying the value of these world championships.
The Wave of Criticism: “A Total Lack of Respect”
However, this reform, presented as strategic by the ISA, is seen as a slight by many CT athletes. Reactions were swift, with a sharp increase in tone, especially on social media.
Among the most critical voices are prominent figures like Yago Dora, the current reigning world champion. His verdict is clear: “Very disrespectful towards the world’s best competition surfers. A total lack of respect in the way they have handled this, absolutely sad for our sport and the future generations of surfers.”
Leo Fioravanti echoes this sentiment, noting that the previous system worked “perfectly” by ensuring the presence of the best. He protests: “Now, the WSL World Champion of 2027 is not even guaranteed to compete in the Olympics.” He also criticizes a lack of communication: “On behalf of the WSL surfers, we tried to communicate with the ISA to find the best solution for everyone, but the ISA was unwilling to collaborate.”
João “Chumbinho” Chianca expresses his “shame” at this decision made “behind our backs,” deeming the qualification system “unfair” and reproaching the ISA for “disregarding our opinions.”
Erin Brooks emphasizes the importance of consistency: “Consistency at the highest level is what defines competition surfing. The WSL Championship Tour is where it happens, and the Olympic qualification pathway should reflect this even more strongly.”
Lakey Peterson shares a similar disappointment: “What a shame to see this. A total lack of respect towards the WSL surfers. We would have liked for you to discuss with us before making this decision, as we have tried to have meetings with you several times, and you have canceled, acting behind our backs and not allowing open communication with the surfers whose lives are affected by this.”
Caity Simmers and Luana Silva have expressed their disagreement, the former with a simple “two thumbs down” gesture, and the latter with a straightforward “We do not agree with this system.”
The Heart of the Problem: Fear of Losing or Missed Opportunity?
These criticisms raise a fundamental question: why this reluctance to invest more in ISA events? Some editorialists do not hesitate to speak of “fear of losing” against surfers from emerging nations, or “disdain” towards an organization that, we must remember, is the only pathway to the Games.
The contrast is striking with the example of Gabriel Medina in Puerto Rico in 2024. After missing direct Olympic qualification, he fully committed to the ISA World Surfing Games, winning the championship with palpable emotion and securing his ticket. His performance was hailed as an example of “courage” and determination in the face of the Olympic stakes.
The ISA is accused of acting behind the scenes and defending its own interests. On the other hand, CT surfers believe that the current system, which favors the cream of the WSL, guarantees Olympic quality. The divide runs deep.
Towards Los Angeles 2028: A “More Contested” Path… and more tense
If the ISA’s intention is to make the journey to Los Angeles 2028 “more contested” and to highlight its own competitions, the method and reception of this reform reveal significant tension between the two major entities of the global surfing world. The final details are yet to be confirmed, but one thing is certain: Olympic surfing is at a crossroads, and peace has not yet been achieved among all stakeholders.
The stakes are no longer just sporting; they are also political. And they could very well reshape the landscape of competitive surfing for the years to come.
