Leading global sports, music and entertainment company, THE·TEAM, has been appointed the exclusive global sales agency of record for the World Surf League (WSL). THE·TEAM’s specialist Rights Sales group will work closely with the WSL to identify and secure a global entitlement partner for the League, creating new opportunities for brands to align with one of the world’s most culturally relevant and lifestyle-driven sports properties.
As the global home of professional surfing, the WSL showcases many of the sport’s top athletes competing across iconic locations around the world. Blending elite competition with surf, lifestyle and youth culture, the WSL offers brands a unique platform to connect with a deeply engaged global audience both in and beyond sport.
In 2025, the WSL experienced significant global growth in record audience engagement and viewership, including a reach of 80 million globally in total viewership on linear and broadcast channels, a 39% increase year-over-year. WSL content generated 1.5 billion impressions, up 46% from the 2024 season.
Celebrating its 50th year, the World Surf League represents the highest level of professional surfing, featuring the world’s best surfers across multiple disciplines. The Championship Tour features stops at iconic surfing destinations to crown World Champions. The 2026 season will culminate at the iconic Pipe Masters in Hawaii.
The WSL continues to build momentum globally through its highly engaged fanbase, strong sustainability credentials and growing relevance ahead of the LA28 Olympic Games, where surfing is expected to once again capture global attention.
Chris Foy, Managing Director, EVP North America Rights Sales at THE·TEAM, said: “The World Surf League is undeniably the pinnacle of a sport that has cultural relevance around the world. With a young, wealthy, and deeply engaged audience, the WSL has a unique but powerful value proposition for brands to tap into.
“There is a tremendous opportunity for the right partner to help shape the next chapter of the League’s growth while authentically connecting with a global audience that values experience, sustainability, travel and culture.”
Nicole Metzger, Chief Revenue Officer at the World Surf League, said: “As we sought an entity to represent us on a global level and identify the right partner, the decision was clear from the onset. THE·TEAM not only has a proven track record but has already jumped in to create value for our League, our fans and our surfers.
“As we enter our 50th year, we are excited to collaborate with THE·TEAM to unlock new commercial opportunities and continue building the global momentum behind the WSL.”
The appointment further strengthens THE·TEAM’s position as a leading commercial partner for properties operating at the intersection of sport, music, entertainment and culture.
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About THE·TEAM
THE·TEAM is proud to provide representation and marketing services to talent, brands and properties across 28 countries and more than 70 cities worldwide.
Shaped by our belief in the unifying power of sports, music and entertainment, THE·TEAM leads with intelligence, ideas and influence. For more information, please visit the.team.
About the WSL
The World Surf League (WSL) is the global home of competitive surfing, crowning World Champions since 1976 and showcasing the world’s best surfing. The WSL oversees surfing’s global competitive landscape and sets the standard for elite performance in the most dynamic playing field in all of sports. With a firm commitment to its values, the WSL prioritizes the protection of the ocean, equality, and the sport’s rich heritage, while championing progression and innovation.
