WSL Expands Women's Championship Tour to 24 Surfers

The World Surf League (WSL) is set to expand the women's Championship Tour field from 18 to 24 surfers starting in 2026, a move celebrated by prominent surfers including Sally Fitzgibbons and Steph Gilmore. The new format will feature the top 14 surfers from the Championship Tour, the top seven from the Challenger Series, and additional wildcards, reflecting the increasing depth and talent in women's surfing. While still below the men's field of 36, this change is seen as a significant step toward gender parity in the sport. Fitzgibbons emphasized the intense competition among women surfers and expressed pride in the growth of the sport. The WSL highlighted this expansion as part of ongoing efforts to inspire future generations and enhance visibility for female athletes. The decision on whether to maintain the mid-season cut at 10 surfers is still pending, with reductions set to occur in 2025.