The Maldives is set to welcome some of the world’s most celebrated surfers once again as the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy returns in 2026, with Hawaiian surfing star Mason Ho confirmed as one of the first athletes joining this year’s prestigious invitation-only competition.
Known for his creative approach, fearless style, and ability to adapt to almost any wave and board, Mason Ho brings a unique energy to the event. Combining surfing heritage with modern performance, Ho has built a reputation for pushing boundaries while celebrating the creativity and freedom that define the sport.
His return to the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy feels like a perfect match, as the competition celebrates not only technical ability but also style, adaptability, and the connection between surfer and ocean.
A Celebration Of Surfing Across Different Eras
One of the highlights of the Surfing Champions Trophy is its unique format, allowing athletes to compete across three iconic board categories: single fin, twin fin, and thruster.
For Mason Ho, this format represents an opportunity to experience different generations of surfing and explore the evolution of the sport through different equipment and styles.
“I try to approach it like I’m living in another time,” Ho shared. “If it’s single fin day, I think about surfers from that era, and when it’s twin fin day, I think about those stories and influences that shaped surfing. That’s what makes this event so unique.”
Rather than following a traditional competition approach, Ho’s surfing is built around instinct, creativity, and reading the moment — qualities that make him one of the most exciting surfers to watch.
Where Champions Come To Surf
Hosted by Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy brings together six world-class surfers to compete at the famous Sultans surf break.
The event rewards more than just power and performance. Surfers must demonstrate versatility, style, and the ability to adapt across different boards and conditions, making it one of the most distinctive competitions in the surfing world.
Since its launch in 2011, the event has welcomed some of the biggest names in surfing, including Kelly Slater, Taj Burrow, Carissa Moore, and other legendary athletes.
Following an exciting 2025 edition, the 2026 event is already building anticipation with Mason Ho and Kai Lenny announced as the first confirmed competitors.
A Return To The Maldives
This will be Mason Ho’s second appearance at the Surfing Champions Trophy, and his previous experience has only increased his excitement for returning to the Maldives.
“Last time I didn’t really know what to expect,” said Ho. “This year I have a slight clue, which makes me even more excited to come back. The waves have been super fun, the resort is amazing, and there’s always a really cool crew around.”
The remaining 2026 competitor lineup will be announced in the coming weeks, with more updates expected from Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa and the official Surfing Champions Trophy channels.
The Perfect Surf Escape In The Maldives
Located just a short speedboat ride from Malé, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa provides the ideal island setting for this world-class surfing event. Surrounded by the waves of North Malé Atoll and supported by a long-standing partnership with Tropicsurf, the resort offers guests access to some of the Maldives’ most iconic surf experiences.
Beyond the competition, visitors can enjoy the island’s relaxed atmosphere, ocean adventures, wellness experiences, and the rare opportunity to connect with surfing legends in one of the world’s most beautiful tropical destinations.
With Mason Ho returning and more champions set to join, the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2026 promises another unforgettable celebration of surfing, creativity, and the endless connection between athletes and the ocean.