12 September 2022
News
Mar
02
LA28 Olympic Games: Surfing Qualification System Explained
The International Surfing Association (ISA) has revealed the multiple qualification pathway for surfers aiming to compete in the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028 (LA28).
We still don’t know how UK surfers will qualify for LA28, so unfortunately, we cannot yet offer clarity on what impact this news will have on Welsh surfing and Wales’ potential for representation at the Games.
However, as per the ISA’s recent announcement, a total of 24 men and 24 women will compete in surfing at LA28. Each country can qualify up to three surfers per gender, per National Olympic Committee, depending on results across different events.
How qualification works
1) 2028 WSL Championship Tour (CT)
A total of ten athletes. The top five ranked surfers per gender as of mid-June 2028 will qualify, with a maximum of one surfer per country via this pathway.
2) 2028 ISA World Surfing Games (WSG)
An additional 10 spots per gender will be awarded at the 2028 ISA World Surfing Games, again with a maximum of one per country.
3) 2027 Continental Slots
One spot per gender will be awarded through continental qualification events:
2026 Asian Games
2027 Pan American Games
2027 European Surfing Championships
Africa and Oceania will qualify through the 2027 ISA World Surfing Games
4) 2026 & 2027 ISA World Surfing Games
Across the 2026 and 2027 ISA World Surfing Games, the highest-ranked team per gender will earn one (1) slot per gender for its nation.
5) Universality Places
One universality place per gender will be available for nations with fewer than eight participants in previous Olympic Games, promoting global representation. The nominated athlete must place within the top 40 at the 2027 or 2028 WSG.
6) Host Nation
As host country, the United States is guaranteed one place per gender if it does not qualify through other pathways.
With qualification spread across elite professional competition, global ISA events, and continental championships, the LA28 system rewards consistency at the highest level while ensuring worldwide representation.
What does this mean for Wales?
Again, no decision has been made on how the UK will qualify for LA28, so the WSF cannot comment on what the implications will be for Welsh surfers. We’ll announce any news as soon as we get it, so stay tuned