Influences
The World’s Surfing Elite at Taghazout Bay
A high-level lineup and optimal surfing conditions for the Pro Taghazout Bay. This event is part of the regional qualifying series for Africa and Europe within the World Surf League circuit. The competition kicked off on Saturday, February 22, and will continue until March 1.
The beautiful seaside resort of Taghazout Bay has been pulsating to the rhythm of surfing since last Saturday. The destination is hosting the Pro Taghazout Bay, which runs until March 1, 2025. This event is part of the regional qualifying series known as the Qualifying Series (QS) for Africa and Europe. A flagship competition of these African and European qualifying series, the Pro Taghazout Bay, a 3000-point QS event, represents a crucial stage in the World Surf League circuit to secure a spot in the 2025 Challenger Series (CS). «e back in Morocco, and especially at the Pro Taghazout Bay», said Rob Gunning, Tour Manager of WSL Europe.
For all participants, Anchor Point in Taghazout is an exceptional world-class surfing spot, and they are all eager to return to showcase their skills. This year, Olympic gold medalist Kauli Vaast (FRA), the 2023 winner, makes his grand return with the goal of qualifying for the Challenger Series. European talents Keoni Lasa (EUK) and Afonso Antunes (POR) also intend to make their mark in Morocco. Meanwhile, young French sensation Tya Zebrowski is making her debut in the competition, while top female surfers Annette Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK) and Noah Klapp (GER) are also in attendance.
It is worth noting that the first edition of this event in 2020 highlighted the exceptional conditions at Anchor Point, followed by a spectacular 2023 edition marked by impressive performances from some of the world’s best surfers. The Anchor Point wave provides outstanding surfing conditions, reaching heights of 2 to 3 meters.
A remarkable showcase for Taghazout Bay, this event presents a unique opportunity for Moroccan surfers, allowing them to compete against the best in the QS circuit and represent Morocco. In the women’s division, Lilias Tebbaï, currently ranked 30th in the QS standings, has received a wildcard entry. On the men’s side, the wildcard has been awarded to Soulaimane Khafi, who delivered an outstanding performance at the Morocco Mall Junior Pro in Casablanca.
The men’s competition promises to be particularly competitive, with Championship Tour surfer Ramzi Boukhiam returning to his home break. With a high-level lineup and optimal surfing conditions anticipated, the Pro Taghazout Bay is establishing itself as a key event on the QS calendar, helping to elevate Moroccan surfing onto the international stage and boost the region’s tourism activity.
