The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has distanced itself from South Africa’s failure to secure the hosting of a premier international event. According toThe Citizen, the World Surfing League (WSL) pulled Jeffreys Bay from its 2026 championship tour schedule this week due to a lack of financial support. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the international surfing tour, but the department tasked with safeguarding the nation’s sporting interests claims procedural regulations were not followed.
Africa’s surfing mecca had hosted the event for more than three decades and was an economic staple for the small coastal town. In announcing its 2026 calendar this weekend, the WSL replaced Jeffreys Bay with a picturesque holiday destination outside Hamilton on New Zealand’s North Island. WSL CEO Ryan Crosby expressed his disappointment at moving the event but hoped it would return in future.
“We love J-Bay and the community there, and we’re really grateful to them for welcoming us for so many years. It’s undoubtedly one of the best waves in the world,” said Crosby. “We did our very best to make J-Bay work in 2025, but the financial support isn’t there to make it viable this year,” he explained.
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The DA said the failure to secure the surfing crown jewel was a blow to Eastern Cape tourism and employment in the area. “Behind every cancelled booking and every quiet shop floor is a family whose income depended on this event. Government inaction should not be paid for by ordinary residents,” said Eastern Cape Legislature member Vicky Knoetze.
Knoetze said the department and Minister Gayton McKenzie had failed to confirm funding for the event, while the Kouga municipality and sponsors had pledged their support. “Major international sporting events play a critical role in attracting visitors, stimulating local economies and showcasing the Eastern Cape on the global stage. They require strategic leadership, not silence,” she said.
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