ISA SUP World Championships 2025: Strong Athlete Line-Up Surprises Ahead of El Salvador Showdown
The ISA is gearing up for the 2025 Stand Up Paddle World Championships in El Salvador, and despite the late announcement, the athlete line-up is far stronger than expected. Many racers who skipped the recent ICF Worlds in Abu Dhabi—raising questions about their competitive future—have now confirmed for the ISA event.
One notable absence remains: Espe Barreras, who is unable to compete due to personal matters. The SUP community wishes her well and hopes to see her back on the start line soon.
Big Comebacks in the Women’s Field
Two names creating the most excitement are Cecilia Pampinella and Csillag Kocsis. Pampinella was missed in Abu Dhabi, where Kocsis claimed the Junior Long Distance title, and fans are eager to see a head-to-head battle between the two in Central America.
Also returning is Marie Carmen Rivera, fresh off three gold medals in Abu Dhabi and a clear favorite to continue her winning streak. Duna Gordillo, another standout from the ICF Worlds, will also make the trip from the Middle East to El Salvador, adding even more depth to the women’s field along with Juliette Duhaime, Alba Frey, Melanie Lafenetre and Iona Rivet just to name a few.
Top Men Returning After Abu Dhabi Absence
Many of the top men who skipped Abu Dhabi are back in action for El Salvador, including:
- Christian Andersen
- David Leão (Brazil)
- Eri Tenorio (Brazil)
- Itzel Delgado (Peru)
- Arthur Arutkin (France)
While reasons for choosing one event over the other are unknown, the return of these athletes guarantees a higher-level competition.
French Team Brings Serious Firepower
France arrives with a stacked roster, featuring legendary paddler Titouan Puyo, who fans hope to see back on the podium like in his peak racing years. The women’s side is equally strong, with Mélanie Lafenêtre, Anais Guyomarch and Iona Rivet bringing years of elite-level experience.
A Tech Race Rematch: Shuri Araki vs. Aaron Sanchez
One of the most anticipated storylines is the rematch between Shuri “Shrimpy” Araki and Aaron Sanchez after their intense Tech Race battle at the ICF Worlds. With both now confirmed for ISA, fans can expect another dramatic showdown.
With the full Spanish squad in attendance, many expect Spain to dominate the medal count across all disciplines.
All Eyes on the ISA Broadcast
Beyond the racing itself, the SUP community is watching closely to see how the ISA handles its live broadcast — especially after the widely criticized stream quality from the ICF event in Abu Dhabi. With a world-class field in both racing and surfing, expectations are high.
Spain
- Duna Grodillo
- Ferando Perez
- Manual Hoyuela
- Antonio Morillo
- Alba Frey
- Iballa Moreno
- Aaron Sanchez
Denmark
- Christian Andersen
Hungary
- Csillag Kocsis
Germany
- Vince Duschneit
- Jojo Karst
Japan
- Shuri Araki
USA
- Soryn Preston
Italy
- Cecilia Pampinella
- Leonard Nika (OG SUP Surfer and Racer)
- Davide Alpino
- Claudia Postiglione
- Sveva Sabato (Great results at ICF)
Argentina
- Juliette Duhaime
- Lucia Cosoleto (APP Surf Champ)
Brazil
- David Leao
- Eri Tenorio
- Luiz Diniz (APP Surf Champ)
- Alex Salazar (Longtime APP SUP Surfer)
France
- Titouan Puyo
- Benoit Carpenter (OG SUP Surfer)
- Melanie Lafenetre
- Iona Rivet
- Anais Guyomarch
- Ethan Bry
- Arthur Arutkin
Peru
- Itzel Delgado
Puerto Rico
- Marie Carmen Rivera
*In case we missed someone feels over looked we do apologize,all our articles are written from the perspective from way we see the SUP Sport. Feel free to contact us to makes things right according to your view.
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