A new era for SUP in Europe: EUROPEAN SUP LEAGUE (ESL), sanctioned by the European Surfing Federation (ESF)
With a new professional league for stand up paddle (SUP) the ESF will boost the professional and recreational sport of SUP in Europe
The European Surfing Federation, in collaboration with the national federations, is launching the European SUP League (ESL), a European circuit that will mark a before and after in the professionalization and visibility of Stand Up Paddle.
In 2025, the ESL kicks off with a structured format in two phases, starting with three events in Spain:
• April 26-27 – Battle for Hercules, Benalmadena (Málaga)
• May 1-4 – 3S Festival, Melilla
• May 16-18 – World SUP Festival, Santa Pola (Alicante)
A second phase will take place between September and October with events in Portugal and Italy, which we will be confirmed in the coming months.
A LEAGUE TO BOOST EUROPEAN SUP
More than just a competition, ESL is born to unify the Stand Up Paddle community in Europe. Its goal is to strengthen the sport internationally, offering opportunities for athletes of all levels and promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible practices.
• A structured circuit that will connect athletes, organizers, and federations under one vision.
• More opportunities for athletes, facilitating their growth and increasing their visibility.
• Commitment to sustainability, with concrete measures for environmental conservation at each event.
• ESL strengthens local support for events, as it is an officially recognized circuit by the European Surfing Federation.
A KEY STEP FOR THE PROFESSIONALIZATION OF SUP
The European Surfing Federation (ESF) has taken a step forward in its commitment to the growth and structuring of Stand-Up Paddle across the continent. The creation of the ESL responds to the need for a unified circuit that allows athletes to compete within an officially recognized framework with international projection. This league is part of the European Surfing Federation’s strategy to strengthen SUP and ensure its long-term development, establishing a solid platform for athletes, clubs, and event organizers.
The European SUP League marks the beginning of a new era for Stand-Up Paddle in Europe. Its growth and consolidation will shape the future of the sport, offering more visibility, structure, and opportunities for athletes, organizers, and the federations involved. Athletes will also be able to compete for the title of the European SUP League Championship in each category.
2025 will be a key year to lay the foundations for the European SUP League (ESL) circuit. Organizers are already working on planning the next season in 2026 with the goal of consolidating the ESL in successive editions and ensuring sustainable growth.