Seven locks in Championship Tour coverage

THE Seven Network will broadcast all the live action from the 2026 Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach, after signing a new agreement with the World Surf League (WSL).

The free-to-air broadcaster will stream its coverage of the Championship Tour on 7plus Sport.

The opening event will feature a 36-man and 24-woman field, including reigning world champion Molly Picklum, Australian title contender Jack Robinson and Victorian wildcards Xavier Huxtable and Ellie Harrison.

The 2026 season will also mark the return of multiple world champions, including Stephanie Gilmore, Carissa Moore and Gabriel Medina.

Seven’s commercial director of sport Renee Quirk said the broadcaster was pleased to extend its partnership with the WSL.

“Surfing resonates strongly with both fans and brands, and this new deal reinforces our commitment to showcasing world-class competition live and free to Australians everywhere,” Quirk said.

“Moments like Molly Picklum’s triumph highlight exactly why the WSL belongs on the screens of Seven and 7plus Sport.”

WSL Asia-Pacific president Andrew Stark said the milestone season would be significant for the sport.

“This is such an important and historic year for professional surfing, and being able to celebrate the season on the home of free-to-air sport in Australia is fantastic,” he said.

“Seeing our events and athletes elevated on this platform amongst the biggest sports in Australia and the world is so important to surfing.”

Surf fans will also be able to watch WSL highlight shows, including Inside Pro Surfing, on Seven and 7plus Sport.

All Championship Tour events across Australia and New Zealand will be streamed live and free throughout the year.