The World Surf League (WSL) has announced an exciting expansion for the 2026 Championship Tour (CT) women's field, increasing the roster to 24 surfers. This decision, driven by the remarkable performances of female surfers and a commitment to fostering progression, will create more opportunities for women to compete at the highest level.
Under the new format, the 2026 women's field will consist of the Top 14 surfers from the CT, the Top 7 qualifiers from the Challenger Series, two WSL Season Wildcards, and one Event Wildcard.
"I'm stoked to see the numbers grow," said 2024 World Champion Caity Simmers. "Women’s surfing is so special. I want to see more of it, and I think a lot of other people do too. I'm really looking forward to having more of my friends on Tour. I think the world deserves to see how epic their surfing is and how hard they charge. I'm really happy that they'll get more opportunities to go for it."
"This is great news! It’s a sign of the times and reflects the depth of talent within female surfing," commented Stephanie Gilmore, an eight-time World Champion. "I’m constantly amazed at the progression and the growing number of women participating in surfing around the world. The future is bright!"
"I’m really excited to hear that more women will be able to be on the CT," said Caroline Marks, 2023 World Champion and Olympic Gold Medalist. "My first event win was also the first competition to have equal prize money, which was a huge step forward. It's cool to think that, just as I pursued my career without worrying about equal prize money, future groms will have a better chance to join the Tour and live their dream, knowing there's a place for them."
Sally Fitzgibbons, a 15-year CT veteran, added, "I couldn’t be more proud of where the level of women’s surfing is currently at. Growing the Tour is the next logical step in that natural progression. Women worldwide are stepping it up every time they hit the water, and on Tour, we’re seeing intense heats and fierce rivalries. It’s what everyone wants to see. I’m so stoked that it’s happening."
Since new ownership took over in 2013, the WSL has supported significant advancements in women’s surfing, from enhancing and expanding event locations to awarding equal prize money in 2019 and implementing a combined schedule in 2022. This latest change underscores the WSL’s dedication to nurturing talent and increasing opportunities in women’s surfing.
The 2025 CT will kick off on January 27 at the world-renowned Banzai Pipeline on Oahu’s North Shore. Women’s surfing at Pipeline is built on generations of progression, with each season honoring the pioneers who paved the way and inspired the next wave of talent.
