Battle for Hercules 2025: The Launchpad for the European SUP League

The city of Benalmádena is ready to write a new chapter in the sport of Stand Up Paddle. Its coastline will host the 3rd edition of the Battle for Hercules, and first official event of the European SUP League (ESL)— the brand-new international circuit launched by the European Surfing Federation, in collaboration with national federations and key organizers across the continent. From Friday afternoon through the entire weekend, TotalSUP will be covering the event live on Facebook, bringing you backstage access, interviews, and exclusive race footage. With more than 200 participants, join us from April 25 to 27 for an action-packed weekend on the Costa del Sol as some of the world’s best paddlers descend on southern Spain.

A Historic Kickoff for European SUP League

The city of Benalmádena is ready to write a new chapter in the sport of Stand Up Paddle. Its coastline will host the Battle for Hercules, the first official event of the European SUP League (ESL)—a brand-new international circuit launched by the European Surfing Federation, in collaboration with national federations and key organizers across the continent.

According to Daniel Parres, one of the driving forces behind this new circuit, the ESL was born out of a desire to professionalize and unify the European SUP scene, providing a consistent and high-level competitive framework for elite athletes while enhancing visibility and access for all levels of paddlers.

The Battle for Hercules: National Pride Meets Global Ambition

Organized by the Club Náutico Marítimo de Benalmádena and Team Hercules, and supported by Senda Azul and the Málaga City Council, the Battle for Hercules has grown year after year. In 2025, it takes a decisive leap, serving as the inaugural event of the ESL, and positioning itself as a flagship competition in the international SUP calendar.

“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,” says Fofi Recio, spokesperson and founding member of the club.

A Star-Studded Line-Up

This year’s event boasts a stellar international line-up, with some of the best riders from around the world:

Men’s Elite (non-exhaustive):

• France: Arthur Arutkin (2018 APP World Champion), Ludovic Teulade, Ethan Bry

• Peru: Itzel Delgado

• Brazil: Eri Tenorio

• Denmark: Christian Andersen

• Spain: Aaron Sanchez (Junior World Champion 2021), Fernando Perez, Antonio Morillo, Sergio Cantoral (multiple ICF Junior World titles)

• Italy: Filippo Mercuriali

• Netherlands: Donato Freens

Women’s Elite (non-exhaustive):

• Spain: Espe Barreras, Alba Frey, Duna Gordillo (all World Champions in 2024), Alexia Soto

• Hungary: Csillag Kocsis (3 x Junior World Champion in 2024 / ICF and ISA)

• Canada: Maddi Leblanc

• Denmark: Emma Freja Pedersen

More Than Just a Race

The Battle for Hercules features Elite, Amateur, Youth, and Open categories, with technical and long-distance races, alongside an energetic beachside festival at Malapesquera Beach. The event space will offer:

• Paddle exhibitions

• Live music

• Brand stands

• Family-friendly activities

One of the highlights will be the Fun Race on Sunday, April 27, open to all enthusiasts and accompanied by free beginner classes, promoting inclusivity and a festive atmosphere.

An Inclusive Vision for the Future

The ESL and Battle for Hercules share a mission to bring SUP to everyone, regardless of age or experience. Whether you’re a fan, beginner, or world champion, this weekend in Benalmádena will be a chance to celebrate the sport in all its diversity.

Stay tuned to TotalSUP’s Facebook, Instagram and Youtube pages for live updates, interviews, and behind-the-scenes content all weekend long!

To register for the event:
www.battleforhercules.com/en/register/