Over 300 athletes will compete in an event that stands out as one of the most comprehensive on the European calendar, with participants from all continents.
ESL, May 12, 2025
The city of Santa Pola is set to host a high-level weekend as it welcomes the third scoring event of the European SUP League (ESL), part of the renowned World SUP Festival Costa Blanca, taking place from May 17 to 19 in Plaza de la Constitución.
Following the success of its previous stages in Benalmádena and Melilla, the ESL continues its tour in an iconic location that will gather the world’s top Stand Up Paddle athletes. So far, more than 300 athletes from countries such as Brazil, Japan, and Australia have registered. With representation from all continents, Santa Pola will become the international epicenter of SUP throughout the weekend.
From a competitive standpoint, the ESL will hold two key races in Santa Pola: the technical race and the long-distance race, both counting towards the official European circuit rankings. With the top positions closely contested after the first two stages, this stop will be crucial in determining the league leadership heading into the final stretch of the season.
In addition to the sporting appeal, the World SUP Festival Costa Blanca will this year include the Parres WaterSports Festival, expanding the program with competitions in Wingfoil, SUP foil, Prone, sea kayak, va’a 6, and dragon boat. This multidisciplinary format further strengthens the diversity and appeal of the event.
Alongside the competitions, the event will offer free SUP and SUP yoga classes, exhibitions, children’s workshops, a maritime fair, and concerts—establishing the festival as one of the most complete events on the European circuit, thanks to both its competitive level and its family-friendly, tourism-driven atmosphere.
In line with the values of the European SUP League, this edition will once again emphasize inclusion and sustainability, through concrete actions such as the use of electric boats for event logistics, sustainable infrastructure, and the promotion of an accessible and engaging environment for all audiences. All these elements reinforce the event’s commitment to a more conscious, responsible, and socially open approach to sport.
The European SUP League (ESL) is the official Stand Up Paddle circuit promoted by the European Surfing Federation, in collaboration with national federations and the continent’s leading event organizers. Founded in 2025, the ESL aims to professionalize, unify, and give visibility to SUP in Europe by offering athletes a solid, accessible, and internationally focused competitive structure. The league is rooted in values such as sustainability, inclusion, and participation across all levels, positioning itself as a growth platform for SUP from grassroots to elite competition.
More information: www.europeansupleague.com
Social media: @european_sup_league
