The Costa del Sol hosts the first event of the new European Stand Up Paddle circuit, with international participation and a program open to all audiences.
The city of Benalmádena is getting ready to make history in the world of Stand Up Paddle. From April 25 to 27, the waters of the Costa del Sol will be the setting for the Battle for Hercules, the opening event of the European SUP League (ESL), the new circuit promoted by the European Surfing Federation in collaboration with national federations and the continent’s main organizers.
The Battle for Hercules, organized by the Club Náutico Marítimo de Benalmádena and Team Hercules, with the support of Senda Azul and the Málaga City Council, has established itself as one of the most prominent competitions on the national and international scene. In 2025, it takes a decisive leap by becoming the first official event of the ESL, marking the beginning of a new era for European SUP.
The ESL was created with the goal of professionalizing and consolidating Stand Up Paddle in Europe, by unifying efforts, creating a solid competitive structure, and offering athletes a high-level stage. The 2025 circuit will unfold in two phases, starting in Spain with three events: Benalmádena, Melilla, and Santa Pola, and continuing in autumn with events in Portugal and Italy.
The Benalmádena event will bring together this weekend some of the best riders on the European and world scene, with confirmed participation of world champions and athletes from countries such as France, Italy, Germany, Denmark, the United Kingdom, Canada, Brazil, and Peru, among others. They will all compete to claim the first major title of the season and be part of the birth of a league that promises to mark a turning point in the history of SUP.
“Having the Battle for Hercules as the opening race of the European SUP League is an immense source of pride and a great responsibility for us. We have been working for years to position this event as a benchmark, and now it will be so at the continental level as well,” says Fofi Recio, spokesperson and driving force behind the event.
The competition will feature Elite, Amateur, Youth and Open categories, including technical races, long distance, and side activities. Malapesquera Beach will become a true paddle surf festival, with a stand area, exhibitions, live music, and attractions for all audiences.
One of the main values of the event and of the ESL itself is its inclusive character and its commitment to bringing paddle surf closer to all kinds of people. An example of this will be the “Fun Race” on Sunday the 27th, a popular open race for any enthusiast, accompanied by free beginner classes, promoting participation and enjoyment in a family-friendly and festive atmosphere.
The Battle for Hercules 2025 will be much more than a competition: it will be a sporting, social, and cultural experience that will turn Benalmádena into the international epicenter of SUP throughout the entire weekend.