The global sports, music and entertainment agency, THE·TEAM, has been appointed as the exclusive global sales agency of record for the World Surf League (WSL), strengthening the league’s commercial ambitions as it prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026.
As part of the agreement, THE·TEAM’s Rights Sales division will lead the search for a global entitlement partner, helping the WSL unlock new sponsorship opportunities and expand its commercial footprint among international brands. The appointment underscores the league’s ambition to capitalise on surfing’s growing global popularity and strengthen its position as a premium lifestyle sports property.
The partnership comes against the backdrop of a record-breaking 2025 season for the WSL. The organisation reported a global linear and broadcast audience of 80 million, a 39% increase year-on-year, while digital content generated 1.5 billion impressions, representing 46% growth over the previous season. The figures highlight surfing’s rising commercial appeal, driven by expanding international audiences, digital engagement and its blend of elite competition and lifestyle culture.
The WSL operates the highest level of professional surfing through its Championship Tour, which visits some of the world’s most iconic surf destinations before culminating at the Pipe Masters in Hawaii. With surfing set to feature at the LA28 Olympic Games, the league is also positioned to benefit from another wave of global exposure in one of its most important commercial markets.
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, added, “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 agreement further strengthens THE·TEAM’s growing portfolio of premium rights holders. The agency now represents more than 120 sports and entertainment properties worldwide and has secured similar commercial mandates for organisations including WTA Ventures, reinforcing its position as one of the industry’s leading specialists in global sponsorship sales.
