Europe united by SUP: The 2026 season promises to be a landmark year for European Stand Up Paddle, with the confirmation of two of the continent’s most important events: EUROSUP 2026, the European Championship for national teams, and the official 2026 calendar of the European SUP League (ESL).
Spain has been chosen as the host of EUROSUP 2026, organized by the European Surfing Federation (ESF), bringing together the best national teams in a format split across two iconic locations. The event will combine SUP Surf and SUP Race disciplines, taking place at Playa de Salinas (Asturias) from July 25–27 for surf competitions (subject to confirmation), and in Melilla from October 2–6 for race events, including technical and long-distance formats. This approach ensures optimal conditions for each discipline and demonstrates a commitment to bringing the sport to diverse European regions.
The SUP Surf discipline will be held from July 25 to 27 at Playa de Salinas, one of the most iconic surf spots in the province of Asturias in northern Spain. Over three days, Europe’s top riders will compete in this discipline at a venue renowned for the quality and consistency of its waves, as well as for its extensive experience in hosting international events. The competition will be integrated into the Salinas Longboard Festival, one of the most prominent events on the European calendar dedicated to classic surfing.
The second venue for the championship will be Melilla, which will host the SUP Race events from October 2 to 6. At this location, the different racing formats will take place, including technical races and long-distance races, in an environment ideally suited for open-water competitions.
At the same time, the European SUP League (ESL) has finalized its official calendar for the 2026 season, following a collaborative review with event organizers and the ESF to ensure that each stage meets the circuit’s technical and quality standards. The calendar includes multiple stops across Europe, featuring key events in:
- Santa Pola, Spain — April 24–26
- Taranto, Italy — May 1–3
- Zürich, Switzerland — June 20–21
- Racibórz, Poland — June 27–28
- Huelva, Spain — September 5–6
- Sesimbra, Portugal — September 11–13
These events will feature sprint, technical and distance races, alongside open activities and non-ranking competitions, offering an exciting and accessible circuit for athletes and fans across Europe. The final event in Sesimbra will feature a major prize package and serve to determine the season’s top rankings.
The consolidation of the ESL calendar and the confirmation of EUROSUP 2026 underline the strength and cohesion of European Stand Up Paddle, promoting both high-level competition and participation from national teams and clubs across the continent. These initiatives will position Europe as a global hub for modern SUP, integrating traditional disciplines with innovative racing formats under a shared vision of growth and professionalization.