This weekend, the European Surfing Federation (ESF) marked a historic milestone in its development by unanimously adopting a new constitution
(85.71% approval) during its Annual General Meeting (AGM), held in Lacanau, the federation’s European headquarters. This significant step underscores two years of renewal, professionalization, and bold vision for European surfing.
European Surfing Federation (ESF) Writes a New Chapter in Its History at the Annual General Meeting in Lacanau
Lacanau, France – [ 3rd june 2026] - All photos by Martin Leroy and ESF Laurent Rondi.
A General Assembly United by Vision and Ambition
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| President Arassus (right) and General Secretary Lindberg (left) initialed the new constitution approved by ESF members |
The AGM brought together 15 European nations, with Robert Fasulo, Director of the International Surfing Association (ISA), in attendance—a testament to the ESF’s growing influence on the global stage. Fernando Aguerre, ISA President, also addressed the assembly via video message, emphasizing the importance of this collaboration for the future of surfing.
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Laurent Peyrondet, Mayor of Lacanau, welcomed delegates to the town’s municipal council chamber, proudly noting that "surfing is in the DNA of every resident here." He stressed the importance of sport—and surfing in particular—as a tool for inclusion, fulfillment, and unity for people of all ages, especially in challenging times.
Jean-Luc Arassus, ESF President, expressed his gratitude to the town of Lacanau for its unwavering support over the past two years and highlighted the importance of this collaboration for the years to come. *"Lacanau will continue to play a key role in the European circuits.
2026: A New Era for European Surfing
The adoption of the 2026 Constitution marks a turning point in the modernization and structuring of the ESF. Over the past two years, the federation has undertaken an unprecedented renewal, placing athletes at the heart of its mission.
Revitalized Circuits and Unprecedented Momentum
- Return of the ETL (Longboard) and ETB (Bodyboard) circuits after a 10-year hiatus, with over 120 participants each in 2025.
- Launch of the ESL (Stand-Up Paddle) League and the introduction of new disciplines, including bodysurfing and "Rapid Surfing" (debuting at the 2027 European Championships).
- Over 20 competitions scheduled for 2026, providing unprecedented dynamism across the continent.
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| R.Fasulo, CEO of the International Surfing Association (ISA) |
Historic Olympic Recognition
- In February 2026, the ESF secured ISA validation: the 2027 European Open Championships will serve as qualifiers for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
- A first for Europe, ensuring that the two Open Champions (men and women) will earn direct Olympic qualification.
Election Results: A Strengthened Team to Lead ESF to New Heights
The General Assembly was also an opportunity to renew and strengthen the ESF leadership team. Among the notable results:
- Luka Börger (Germany) was validated with 86.67% as an individual member. Luka, who holds an active role within the German Surfing Federation (DSV), brings her expertise in youth development and event organization.
- Gonçalo Saldanha (Portugal) was validated with 100% as an individual member. Gonçalo, President of the Portuguese Surfing Federation (FPS), is recognized for his commitment to promoting women’s surfing and sustainability in the sport.
These elections confirm the ESF’s commitment to relying on experienced and dedicated individuals from Europe’s most dynamic national federations. Their expertise will be invaluable in further professionalizing the ESF and strengthening ties between European nations.
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| "Surfing is in the DNA of every resident here." said L.Peyrondet the mayor. |
Individual Members as Angel Lobo (Spain), Tiago Matos (Portugal), Laurent Rondi (France), Michael Lindberg (Denmark) were reappointed just like Marco Mazzi (Italy), Gavin Mcrea (Irland) and Riccardo Bilbao (Spain) as coopted members.
ESF: A Federation Resolutely Focused on the Future
With this new constitution and strengthened team, the ESF reaffirms its commitment to:
✅ Structuring European surfing to make it a global benchmark.
✅ Providing athletes with professional circuits and Olympic qualification opportunities.
✅ Innovating by introducing new disciplines and enhancing media visibility.
✅ Strengthening ties between national federations, clubs, and athletes.
"European surfing is on the rise, and Lacanau is a strong symbol of this momentum. Together, with a united and determined team, we are writing a new chapter for our sport—one of excellence, unity, and ambition," concluded Jean-Luc Arassus.
About the ESF
The European Surfing Federation (ESF) is the governing body for surfing in Europe. It organizes continental championships and circuits, including ETB (Bodyboard), ETL (Longboard), and ESL (SUP), and works closely with the International Surfing Association (ISA) to promote surfing as a sport of excellence and shared values.
Press Contact:
[Laurent RONDI]
[Communication and media]
European Surfing Federation
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