The World Surf League has announced the return of multiple decorated champions, including John John Florence and Stephanie Gilmore, to its elite Championship Tour for the 2026 season.
Florence, a three-time world champion from Hawaii, will join the tour via a special invitation after a year-long hiatus from competitive surfing.
Gilmore, an eight-time world champion and record holder from Australia, received a wildcard invitation for the women’s tour. She had opted to leave the world circuit previously.
The announcement of Florence’s return follows by just one day the news of Gilmore’s invitation. Five-time champion Carissa Moore, also from Hawaii, has also confirmed her return to the tour.
These invitations mark a significant boost in star power for the upcoming season, bringing back some of the sport’s most successful athletes.
Florence, 33, won world titles in 2016, 2017, and 2024 before taking a break for the 2025 season. During his absence, Brazil’s Yago Dora claimed the 2025 championship.
Gilmore, 37, retired from the elite circuit after the 2023 season. Her record eight world titles were secured between 2007 and 2022.
Moore’s five world championships were won in 2011, 2013, 2015, 2019, and 2021.
The 2026 Championship Tour is scheduled to commence in April at Bells Beach, Australia.
The tour itinerary also includes a stop in Peniche, Portugal, from October 22 to November 1. This event will serve as the 11th and penultimate stop of the year.
Portuguese surfer Yolanda Hopkins is also expected to make her first appearance on the elite tour in 2026.