Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa has announced that Brazilian freesurfer Victor Bernardo will compete in the 2026 Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy, joining Hawaiian surfer Mason Ho in this year’s invitation-only field.
Taking place from September 4 to 11, 2026, the event returns to the legendary Sultans surf break in the North Malé Atoll, where six invited surfers will compete using three different surfboard designs—single fin, twin fin and thruster—to determine the overall champion.
A Format That Rewards Versatility
Unlike traditional surfing competitions, the Surfing Champions Trophy challenges athletes to adapt their style across three distinct eras of surfboard design.
The unique format rewards technical versatility, creativity and board knowledge rather than performance on a single type of equipment, making it one of surfing’s most distinctive invitation-only events.
Victor Bernardo Brings All-Round Style
Widely regarded as one of modern surfing’s most versatile freesurfers, Victor Bernardo has built an international reputation for seamlessly transitioning between alternative surfboard shapes and high-performance equipment.
The 28-year-old Brazilian, who grew up in Guarujá on Brazil’s São Paulo coastline, first entered competitive surfing as a junior, winning the Oakley Pro Junior before establishing himself as one of Brazil’s leading freesurfers.
Speaking about his invitation, Bernardo said:
“I surf different boards every day, and to me it’s the most fun thing in surfing. To be in an event like this has always been my dream. I’m very excited for it.”
He added:
“I love that it’s very selective, and it seems to be an incredible experience. I am honoured and excited.”
A Personal Milestone
Beyond the competition itself, Bernardo said the invitation also carries special personal meaning.
“What I’m most excited about is bringing my mum on her first international trip, enjoying our time together and having fun.”
Surfing Meets Island Hospitality
Guests staying at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa enjoy direct access to the competition, with Sultans located just minutes from the resort by boat.
The week includes not only competition heats but also athlete meet-and-greets, post-surf discussions, sunset gatherings and opportunities to experience the island’s vibrant surf culture.
Located just 25 minutes by speedboat from Malé, the resort has worked alongside Tropicsurf for more than two decades, offering guests access to some of the Maldives’ most renowned surf breaks.
Building on a Prestigious Legacy
First held in 2011, the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy has welcomed some of surfing’s biggest names, including Kelly Slater, Carissa Moore, Joel Parkinson, Taj Burrow, Mark Occhilupo, Michel Bourez and Maya Gabeira.
The 2025 edition was won by Michel Bourez, who completed a remarkable comeback from injury while recording the event’s only perfect 10-point ride.
Additional competitors for the 2026 event will be announced in the coming weeks.
