The Margaret River Pro will remain on the Championship Tour (CT) until at least 2021, the World Surf League (WSL) announced yesterday Monday in Press releaseThe partnership with Western Australia's tourism department has been extended in a contract that means the world's best surfers will be there for at least two more years.

The event had been at the centre of controversy after the 2018 edition was cancelled due to the presence of sharks in the area, which caused two non-fatal attacks. Several competitors, especially Brazilians, were against it and the WSL decided to end the tournament in Uluwatu, Bali two months later.

“Margaret River is a venue that has been challenging the world’s best surfers since 1985 and the WSL is thrilled that we are continuing our partnership with Tourism Western Australia,” said WSL CEO Sophie Goldschmidt. “The beautiful Western Australian coastline never fails to deliver one of the most memorable events on tour. Anticipation is high and we can’t wait to return to Margaret River in May and watch our athletes continue to break performance barriers in epic Western Australian surfing.”

This year the event will start on May 29th and the waiting period will go until June 9th.

Head of Tourism Paul Papalia said: “Margaret River is one of Western Australia’s premier tourist destinations. Known around the world for its magnificent waves, great food and wine and stunning natural resources including majestic rainforests and caves, the Margaret River Pro not only injects money and creates jobs for the local economy, it also gives us the opportunity to showcase the region and the state to a global audience. The event attracts thousands of visitors to the region including competitors, officials and spectators who travel to Margaret River to watch the action.”

“I really love Margaret River so I’m really excited that we’ll be going back there in the next few years,” said Carissa Moore, who has won the event twice. “It’s super raw, it’s all about the elements, you and the ocean, which I love. It’s a challenging wave which is good because to be the world champion you need to be the best in all conditions. It can be big or small, powerful and windy and it can definitely put you out of your comfort zone, which brings out the best in all competitors.”