The EuroSUP 2026 officially got underway today at the Barreltopia Salinas Longboard Festival, with Europe's best Stand-Up Paddle surfers taking to the water on the opening day of competition in one of the continent's most iconic wave-riding destinations.
Organised jointly by the European Surfing Federation (ESF) and the Spanish Surfing Federation (FESurfing), the event once again highlights the strong collaboration between both organisations in delivering international competitions that continue to strengthen and develop surfing across Europe.
The opening day featured an intense schedule of heats across the Open and Junior divisions, with athletes battling for places in the championship finals. The day concluded with the traditional Sand Ceremony, one of the festival's most symbolic moments, celebrating friendship, unity and respect among the participating nations and reinforcing the values that define the European surfing community.
Spanish riders shine on home waters
In the Open Women's division, Spanish riders Julieta Rodríguez-Villamil and Alazne Aurrecoechea dominated their opening three rounds to secure direct qualification for the Grand Final. They will now await the two remaining finalists, who will emerge from the last repechage round featuring Elise Thiolent (France), Camille Dubrana (France), Laura Dal Pont (Italy) and Joana Andrade (Portugal).
The Open Men's competition saw Juan de los Reyes (Spain) and Pierre Girardeau (France) book their places in the Grand Final after impressive performances throughout the day. Two more finalists will be decided through the remaining repechage rounds, with contenders including Manuel Hoyuela, Tomás Lacerda and Duschneit Vince still in contention for the European title.
Junior finals decided
The Junior Men's Grand Final is now set, with Antonin Meier (Germany), Léo Le Tohic Casareggio (France), Luca Cretto (Italy) and Rodrigo Basilio (Spain) advancing to battle for the European crown.
In the Junior Women's division, Julieta Rodríguez-Villamil (Spain) will once again be in action after qualifying for a second final of the event. She will face Elise Thiolent (France) and Margarida Faria (Portugal) in the fight for the Junior European title.
With the finals and decisive repechage heats still to come, the EuroSUP 2026 promises another exciting day of action as Europe's top SUP riders compete for the continental crowns in Salinas.