The English Riviera is hosting the ICF Stand Up Paddling (SUP) World Cup 2026 and Paddle UK SUPER Festival from 24–28 June.
Paddle UK and the event organisers, have been working with Torbay Council and the English Riviera Business Improvement District to prepare for a week of world-class racing, festival activities, and a vibrant community celebration of sea, sport and summer.
Members of Paddle UK/Cymru/Scotland/Northern Ireland get a 25% discount on entry fees >>
(c) Brendon Prince
Ashley Metcalfe, CEO for Paddle UK, said:
“With only 100 days to go, it’s fantastic to be working with Torbay Council as excitement builds towards this summer’s event.
“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.”
About 200 elite SUP athletes will compete in sprint, technical and distance races from Torre Abbey Sands as part of the SUP World Cup.
The SUPER Festival brings a programme of family-friendly activities, entertainment and opportunities for everyone to get involved.
Members of Paddle UK/Cymru/Scotland/Northern Ireland get a 25% discount on entry fees >>
From Torquay’s waterfront to Paignton’s iconic pier, familiar places will become the backdrop to thrilling races, live entertainment and community events.
Beaches, harbours and promenade areas will host everything from festival races and SUP Polo to food, entertainment and trade stands.
(c) Brendon Prince
Race Director Brendon Prince said:
“We’ve got everything from absolute beginner stuff off the beach through to advanced adventure paddling and everything in between.
“It’s about helping people understand ‘yes, this is a SUP World Cup location,’ but come and visit, come and explore and come and try all the different journeys you can have by SUP.
“The leverage an event gives you to create legacy is fantastic.”
About 1,000 people expected to join the challenge – a spectacle that residents can watch from many well-loved points around the Bay.
For those wanting to take part, the event offers opportunities for all confidence levels.
Beginners are encouraged to try paddleboarding for the first time through Have a Go sessions, or they can take part in relaxed festival races.
The activities make it an ideal weekend activity for families, groups of friends, or anyone curious to try something new on their local waters.
Experienced paddlers can enter the ICF World Cup races and challenge top competitors from around the world.
With €9,000 prize money available in the ICF open categories, and equipment demonstrations from leading suppliers, the weekend promises something special for competitive racers, casual paddlers and spectators alike.
Cllr Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Events, Tourism, Culture and Corporate Services said:
“We are thrilled to be hosting the 2026 ICF SUP World Cup and SUPER Festival here in Torbay. 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.
“Whether you’re taking part, cheering from the beach, exploring the festival village or simply soaking up the atmosphere, this will be one of the highlights of the summer. With just 100 days to go, we can’t wait to welcome everyone to what promises to be an exciting and memorable week for Torbay.”
(c) Annagail Leaman
Torbay Council is encouraging residents to save the date, invite friends and family, and come down to experience this once-in-a-generation event.
The SUP World Cup and SUPER Festival will be a landmark moment for the Bay and a chance for the whole community to feel part of something truly special.
Further information and registration details are available at: www.superfestival.paddleuk.org.uk
