BUSINESS

RIP CURL announces 8 YEAR MULTI-MILLION dollar deal with 8 X World Surfing Champion STEPHANIE GILMORE

WORDS: Mollie Quinn PHOTOGRAPHY Supplied

Rip Curl has announced a groundbreaking signing with eight-time world surfing champion Stephanie Gilmore.

Rip Curl, Torquay-born surfing company, has announced one of the biggest deals in Australian sport to date, signing eight-time world surfing champion Stephanie Gilmore in a groundbreaking deal.

This multi-million dollar agreement marks a significant milestone in the surfing world, highlighting Rip Curl’s leadership in surf and its vision to be The Ultimate Surfing Company.

Hailing from Kingscliff NSW, Stephanie Gilmore, celebrated as one of the greatest surfers in the history of the sport, has clinched the WSL World Champion title eight times. Her style, unparalleled skill, relentless dedication, and profound passion for surfing have set her apart as a true icon.

This deal comes at a pivotal moment in Stephianie’s career, as she embarks on a year-long sabbatical from professional competition to embark on ‘the Search’ – travelling the world to feel that freedom and to discover the most exceptional waves, adventures, and experiences.

Through this deal, Rip Curl pledges unwavering support for Stephanie’s global exploration, underscoring the brand’s philosophy that the Search is a universal pursuit, resonating with surfers and searchers everywhere.

The duration and scale of the agreement underscore the magnitude of Stephanie’s influence in the sport and the confidence Rip Curl has in her continuing to build on this legacy.

Despite being in year 17 of her illustrious career, with 34 Event Wins under her board, five perfect 10s and being inducted into the Surfers’ Hall of Fame, this eight-year deal signifies a long-term commitment to excellence and innovation in the surfing industry.

Gilmore’s relationship with Rip Curl began in 2000 when she first signed with the brand at 12 years old. She then went on to win four World Championships in 2007 (Rookie on Tour), 2008, 2009 and 2010.

“This really feels like a new era in my career. In taking a year-off my aim was to just go surfing.

To reconnect with what surfing really means to me and how I can share that with the world.

So when this opportunity came up to join The Search with Rip Curl, travelling the world, finding waves, having fun, it was the perfect alignment – there’s so much to be inspired about.”

While taking a sabbatical from full-time competition this season, Gilmore will return to the elite WSL Championship Tour in 2025 with her eye on more event wins and inspired performances amongst the world’s best.

“I love competing, and plan to return to the tour in 2025. After 17 years of putting on a competition jersey, it’s a big change in my schedule, but one I’m fully embracing and beyond excited about.“

This partnership not only marks a significant chapter in Stephanie’s career but also sets a new standard for sponsorships in the surfing world. As Rip Curl and Stephanie embark on this unparalleled adventure together, the surfing community eagerly anticipates the innovation, inspiration, and awe-inspiring moments that are sure to emerge from this historic deal.

For further information about Rip Curl, visit https://www.ripcurl.com/au/