Caroline Marks, the reigning Olympic gold medalist and current world No. 2 in professional surfing, has been named the newest U.S. surf ambassador for Lexus, the company announced Tuesday.
Marks joins fellow Lexus athlete Griffin Colapinto as the automaker continues to expand its presence in elite competitive surfing and its partnership with the World Surf League.
The Melbourne Beach, Florida, native won the 2023 WSL Championship Tour title and captured Olympic gold in 2024, establishing herself as one of the sport’s top competitors.
As part of the partnership, Marks will compete on the World Surf League Championship Tour while driving a new Lexus GX.
“Growing up, I’d load my boards into whatever car would get me to the beach,” Marks said in a statement. “Now I’m driving a GX that actually gets me to those hard-to-reach breaks without worrying if I’ll make it back, and it has room in the back for all my boards.”
Marks first turned professional at age 15 and has since become one of the most recognizable athletes in women’s surfing, known for her aggressive approach in heavy waves and strong performances on tour.
Lexus said the partnership reflects its continued investment in professional surfing and athlete-driven marketing within the sport.
“Caroline represents the next generation of elite surfing talent,” said Lisa McQueen, senior manager of Lexus marketing. “Whether she’s competing at the highest level or traveling in search of waves, her approach aligns with what Lexus stands for.”
The announcement comes as Lexus extends its partnership with the World Surf League into the 2026 season.
As the WSL’s official automotive partner in North America, Lexus will again serve as title partner for several major events, including the US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach, the Trestles Pro in San Clemente, the Fiji Pro, and the Pipe Masters on Oʻahu’s North Shore.
Throughout the season, Marks is expected to appear in Lexus content campaigns, fan experiences, and event activations at select WSL stops.
The company said the partnership is part of a broader push to strengthen its connection to the surf lifestyle and action sports community.