“The WSL has revisited its position based on
information and pressure now presented by the ISA.”
It has been lightly difficult, these days, to
find rays of light in professional competitive surfing’s darkness.
John John vacating the tour, Gabriel Medina unable to fly, Filipe
Toledo flailing in the pool after mastering Pipeline etc. The
elation, therefore, over former World Junior Champion Vasco
Ribeiro’s return to the arena at the Qualifying Series Taghazout
Bay Pro in Morocco can certainly be understood.
The one-time future of Portuguese surfing was on a run in in
late teens, early 20s, though was unfortunately derailed after he
refused a drug test administered by the International Surfing
Association’s doping control officer in 2022. He was handed a three
year ban, beginning in 2023.
Ribeiro chalked the bad business up to addiction issues plus not
understanding the seriousness of the drug tests, though was on the
road to redemption, the World Surf League allowing him to compete
again. “I recently realized that my suspension only applies to ISA
and Olympic contests,” he told Stab Magazine,
“so I can take part in other competitions, including the WSL. I
spoke to my family and my lawyer and decided to go ahead.”
A feel good comeback story that surf fans so desperately
craved.
After securing his place in the Taghazout draw, Ribeiro was
busily practicing his craft when he was informed that the
International Surfing Association had stepped in to squish the
redemption. Taking to Instagram, the 30-year-old explained:
Unfortunately, today I won’t bring you the news I was hoping
to give.
It was with great surprise and disappointment that I
received the news that, despite having had formal confirmation from
the World Surf League (WSL) that I could return to competition, I
was prevented from competing at Pro Taghazout Bay a few hours
before the start of the event.
WSL, as an independent entity of the International Surfing
Association (ISA), had assured it could at this event. However, in
a last-minute decision with no chance of response, the WSL has
revisited its position based on information and pressure now
presented by the ISA.
At this stage, I always respect the decisions of the
regulatory entities and have fulfilled all conditions required for
my return. So it’s difficult to accept a sudden change of criteria
with no clear explanations and so few hours away from the
championship. This situation has a big impact on my career and also
my personal life. All the preparation and dedication for this
moment has been abruptly put into account, which makes everything
even harder to accept.
Despite the frustration, I’m still focused on the future and
hopeful that everything will be resolved quickly. Thank you all for
your unconditional support – we are moving forward!
Professional competitive surfers were quick to jump into
Ribiero’s feed in attempts to buoy the downbeat fella. Leonardo
Fioravanti sharing, “The moment will come by bro and it will be so
incredible for everyone to watch.” Jason Andre adding Portuguese
blessings.
But how does this make you feel about the evil, grace-less
ISA?
Will you boo and hiss its president Fernando Aguerre the next
time you spot him?
Certainly recommended.
