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The English Riviera is set to host one of the UK’s biggest stand-up paddle events this summer, as the ICF SUP World Cup 2026 and Paddle UK SUPER Festival arrive in Torbay from June 24–28.
Organised by Paddle UK in partnership with Torbay Council, the event will bring together elite international racing, grassroots participation, and a full festival programme centred around Torre Abbey Sands.
Around 200 top SUP athletes are expected to compete in sprint, technical, and distance disciplines as part of the ICF SUP World Cup. Open categories will also allow experienced paddlers to test themselves against international competition, with €9,000 in prize money on offer.
Paddle UK CEO Ashley Metcalfe said the event is designed to both showcase the sport and grow participation:
“We are working hard to deliver an exceptional SUP World Cup and Paddle UK SUPER Festival that will inspire more people to get on the water, grow the sport of stand up paddling, and showcase the English Riviera as one of the UK’s top SUP destinations.”
Alongside the racing, the SUPER Festival will feature a wide range of activities aimed at all levels, from complete beginners to experienced paddlers. This includes ‘Have a Go’ sessions, festival races, SUP Polo, live entertainment, and trade stands spread across Torquay and Paignton.
One of the standout moments of the week will be an attempt to break the world record for the largest number of SUP paddlers on the water at once, with around 1,000 participants expected to take part.
Race Director Brendon Prince highlighted the broader vision behind the event:
“We’ve got everything from absolute beginner paddling through to advanced adventure sessions. It’s about helping people understand this is a SUP World Cup location, but also somewhere you can come and explore and experience different journeys through SUP. The legacy an event like this can create is huge.”
Torbay Council’s Jackie Thomas added:
“Our stunning coastline is the perfect stage for this global event, and it’s a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors to come together and celebrate everything that makes the English Riviera so special.”
With a mix of world-class competition and accessible festival experiences, the event is shaping up to be a key moment for UK SUP in 2026.
Further information and registration details are available via the link below.
SUPboarder has already featured early announcements around this event, and as June approaches, it’s set to become one of the standout dates on the UK paddling calendar.