There’ s also a range of other activities for paddleboarders of all abilities to get involved with across the weekend.
The SUP World Cup event will be supported by the English Riviera Business Improvement District( BID) Company and Torbay Council, alongside local and regional businesses.
Cllr Jackie Thomas, Torbay Council’ s Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture and Events, said,“ As one of the UK’ s premier coastal resorts, we look forward to offering a warm welcome to the many competitors next year. We’ re looking forward to welcoming the teams and visitors that the event will attract from around the world to our sparkling waters and award-winning beaches.
“ We are sure they will appreciate the results of our work with partners and our whole community to deliver an ongoing exceptional commitment to environmental sustainability, water quality, safety, and beach management across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.”
Carolyn Custerson, CEO of English Riviera BID Company, added,“ We are incredibly proud to welcome the ICF Stand Up Paddling World Cup to the English Riviera in 2026, and this is a significant opportunity to showcase the English Riviera to a global audience.
“ This world-class event will not only offer an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to get on the water and enjoy our beautiful coastline, but it will also further elevate our international profile as a year-round destination and bring real economic benefits to our local businesses and hospitality sector.”
It is the first time that an ICF Stand Up Paddling event of this scale will be held in the UK and the first since Paddle UK was announced as a governing body for the sport in February 2023.
Ashley Metcalfe, Chief Executive of Paddle UK, said,“ I am delighted to be visiting the English Riviera and celebrating the‘ one year to go’ milestone with our local partners, businesses, sponsors and paddlers.
“ We are looking forward to developing our plans over the next 12 months, to deliver an excellent SUP World Cup and Paddle UK SUPER Festival, that will support our growth for stand up paddling and promote the English Riviera as a SUP destination.” paddleuk. org. uk Further information about the event schedule, prices and how to sign up is available on the Paddle UK SUPER Festival and ICF SUP World Cup website: https:// superfestival. paddleuk. org. uk
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