Fiji’s hosting of the 2026 Fiji Pro is more than a world-class surfing event.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka highlights its importance to tourism, sports, environmental protection and opportunities for Fijians.
Speaking at the official opening ceremony, Gavoka said Fiji was privileged to host Stop Number Eight of the 2026 World Surf League Championship Tour.
The 2026 Fiji Surfing Pro will feature 24 of the world’s best women and 36 men from 16 countries to Cloudbreak.
He described Cloudbreak as not only an extraordinary wave but a distinctly Fijian one, deeply connected to the country’s ocean, reefs, islands and communities.
“When millions of people around the world watch Cloudbreak, they are not only watching a surfing competition. They are seeing Fiji,” Gavoka said.
He stressed that the success of the event depended on the health of Fiji’s marine environment, saying there could be no Cloudbreak without a healthy reef and no sustainable tourism industry without healthy ecosystems.
Gavoka welcomed initiatives under the World Surf League’s One Ocean programme, which works with Conservation International, the Fiji Surfing Association and the Mamanuca Environment Society on environmental and community projects.
He said the Fiji Pro should also inspire young Fijians to pursue opportunities beyond competing, including coaching, hospitality, marine conservation, media, tourism and enterprise.
