The Maldives' national surfing teams have departed for India to take part in the upcoming Asian Surfing Championships, set to begin on 3 August in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu.

The championship, which runs until 12 August, will serve as the final qualifying event for surfing at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. The Maldives, having hosted the championship last year, has already secured qualification slots for the Games.

The senior men’s team comprises captain Ahmed Agil, Ismail Rashid, and Hood Ahmed. The junior men’s squad includes Yusuf Kayan Hamdan Zaki, Yaseen Ahmed Nasheed, and Kayan Abdulla Areef. Both teams were selected following trials held at Varnula Wave in Malé City.

For the first time, Maldivian female surfers will also compete internationally. The women’s team features Maryam Rahil Naseem, Rishtha Shujau, and Shazia Saeed.

This is the first time Maldivian surfers are competing in an overseas edition of the Asian Surfing Championships. The team will be coached by former Asian Championship medallist Hussain Areef, who brings valuable experience to guide the athletes.