The inaugural WSL Championship Tour event at Raglan’s legendary Manu Bay delivered a fitting finale on May 25, 2026. After a building swell and some earlier drama (including a brief "Code Red" halt due to a marine incident involving a photographer), pulsing left-handers turned on for an epic day of high-performance surfing.

Women's Final: Carissa Moore Reigns Supreme

Carissa Moore (HAW) defeated Sawyer Lindblad (USA) in a high-scoring, high-stakes showdown.

• Moore, the five-time world champion and Olympic gold medalist, made history as a mother, claiming her 29th career CT victory and her first win since returning to competition.
• She dominated with powerful backhand carves and flow on the Raglan walls, posting excellent scores throughout.
• This was extra special for Moore — she won her very first CT event in New Zealand back in 2010, and now she’s back on the podium 16 years later with her family (including her baby) celebrating.

Lindblad pushed hard in her first final of the season and showed why she’s one of the brightest young talents on tour. Both surfers brought serious heat to the final.

Men's Final: Italo Ferreira Back on Top

Italo Ferreira (BRA) took down Morgan Cibilic (AUS) to claim the men’s title and jump to the top of the 2026 rankings.

• The fiery Brazilian and former world champion unleashed his signature aerial game and powerful forehand attacks on the point break.
• Italo’s explosive surfing was perfectly suited to Manu Bay’s long, rippable walls.
• Cibilic had a breakout run and made the final a thriller, but Italo’s experience and commitment in critical sections sealed the deal.

Key Moments from the Lead-Up to Finals

• Yago Dora dropped the first perfect 10 of the 2026 season in a buzzer-beater quarterfinal — jaw-dropping rail work and commitment.
• Carissa Moore posted one of the highest heat totals of the year (19.00) in the semis.
• Strong performances from locals and international stars made this a memorable debut for the CT in Aotearoa.