Felicity Palmateer to Compete in 2026 Surfing Champions Trophy

Felicity Palmateer is set to return to competitive surfing next month as the only female invitee at the Four Seasons Maldives 2026 Surfing Champions Trophy.

Having previously competed in Championship Tour events and the Women’s Big Wave Tour, Palmateer has transitioned to a role as a member of the WSL broadcast team. The Surfing Champions Trophy features a unique format that includes heats on single fins, twin fins, and thrusters, which Palmateer is eager to embrace despite her admission that her competitive days are behind her.

Palmatteer has a history of competing in challenging conditions, including a third-place finish at the Pe’ahi Challenge in 2016. Although she last participated in a full slate of QS competition in 2019, she has remained active in the surfing community through various media appearances. She expressed excitement about returning to the sport for the joy of surfing itself, free from the pressures of rankings.