Marking a first for the UK, Torbay's coastline will play host to the ICF Stand Up Paddling (SUP) World Cup 2026 and Paddle UK SUPER Festival from 24–28 June. As the 100‑day countdown begins, the English Riviera is set to welcome one of the biggest water sports events ever to take place in the country.

Torbay Council is proud to be working in partnership with Paddle UK and the event organisers to help prepare for an unforgettable week that will come alive with world‑class racing, festival activities, and a vibrant celebration for residents, local businesses and community groups. Around 200 elite SUP athletes will compete in sprint, technical and distance races from Torre Abbey Sands as part of the SUP World Cup, while the SUPER Festival brings a packed programme of family‑friendly activities, entertainment and opportunities for everyone to get involved.

This milestone moment offers a unique chance to highlight Torbay at its finest. Beaches, harbours and promenade areas across the Bay will host everything from festival races and SUP Polo to food, entertainment and trade stands. A major highlight will be the attempt to break the World Record for the most SUP paddlers on the water at once, with up to 1,000 people expected to join the challenge - a spectacle that residents can watch and take part from many well‑loved points around the Bay.

For those wanting to take part, the event offers opportunities for all confidence levels, anyone can enter the Festival or the World Cup events. Local families, schools and clubs are encouraged to get involved in Have a Go sessions, beginners can take part in relaxed festival races, whilst more experienced paddlers can enter the ICF World Cup races and challenge top competitors from around the world. With over £7,500 worth of 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.

The event is expected to bring significant benefits for Torbay, from boosting the local economy and increasing visitor spend to raising the Bay’s profile nationally and internationally. Local traders and hospitality businesses are set to benefit from the increased footfall, while young people will have opportunities to be inspired by world‑class outdoor sport. With many activities free or low cost, the festival will be accessible for families across the community, encouraging more people to enjoy healthy, active lifestyles. The week will also reinforce safe enjoyment of Torbay’s coastline, supported by clear water safety messaging throughout the event.

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, local businesses, community groups and visitors to come together and celebrate everything that makes the English Riviera so special.

A dedicated group of local volunteers is already coming together to support the event, highlighting the pride and enthusiasm within the Torbay community. Their involvement reflects the spirit of collaboration that defines our area and it ensures that the benefits of hosting the World Cup are felt widely across the Bay, leaving a lasting, positive legacy for our residents, our local economy and our beautiful coastline.

This is more than a sporting event - it’s a celebration of place, people and potential."

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.”

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 the final 100‑day countdown now underway, we can’t wait to welcome everyone to what promises to be an exciting and memorable week for Torbay.”

Torbay Council encourages residents to save the date, invite friends and family, and come down to experience this once‑in‑a‑generation event. Whether paddling, spectating, taking a stroll along the seafront, or enjoying the festival atmosphere from your favourite spot, 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 to enter, spectate, volunteer or partner available at: www.superfestival.paddleuk.org.uk