IOC confirms surfing in Paris 2024 with Teahupoo as host

Everything indicates that SUP will not be present at this edition of the Olympic Games


John John Florence at Teahupoo. If he wanted to go to Tokyo, he's definitely going to want to go to Paris 2024. Photo: WSL/Hayden Smith

The Executive Board of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed surfing as part of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Programme, with Tahiti as the selected location, the International Surfing Association reported in a press release.

Surfing had been chosen by the host city of the games and although it was expected that the IOC would give a positive response, the official response came today.

In addition, it was confirmed that Teahupo'o will be the venue for the event, which means that the issue of waves, so much talked about for Tokyo 2020, is practically resolved.

“We are excited to be part of the Olympic journey to 2024 with the IOC and Paris, and we believe we have generated great momentum now for the long-term, permanent inclusion of Surfing in the Olympic Programme,” said ISA President Fernando Aguerre.

She added: “The conditions at Teahupo’o offer an incredible wave that will excite athletes and entertain fans. Elite surfers, both men and women, compete here regularly and are eager to compete for Olympic glory at Teahupo’o. With 22 men and 22 women, we are happy to reaffirm our full commitment to gender equality and fair sport.”

“We are excited to work with our friends at Paris 2024 and deliver an event that matches their vision of truly spectacular Olympic Games. With Teahupo'o as the event site, we have no doubt that the Games will leave a legacy that will benefit future generations for years to come,” Aguerre concluded.

Meanwhile, big rider and waterwoman Justine Dupont, representing the athletes, said: As an athlete, there is no greater achievement than competing at the Olympic Games and there is great excitement among surfers for Paris 2024, especially with Tahiti as the venue. In the world of surfing, Teahupo'o is a sacred place, rich in history and tradition and without a doubt, one of the most exciting and consistent waves in the world.

"I know I can speak for my fellow surfers when I say we can't wait to showcase our sport in Tahiti at the Paris Games in 2024," Dupont concluded.

There is no mention of the inclusion of SUP which may not be so good news for paddlers.

After winning against CAS, the ISA submitted the discipline's candidacy for Paris 2024.

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