World Surf League Suspends Alan Cleland Over Tahiti Allegations

The World Surf League suspended Mexican professional surfer Alan Cleland from competition after allegations of serious misconduct linked to a private gathering in Tahiti during August 2026. The case involves a 16-year-old Australian surfer and has prompted reactions across the international surfing community.

The WSL announced the provisional suspension on October 11, 2026, after receiving allegations it described as extremely serious. According to multiple outlets including Surf Session and CNews, the accused surfer was identified as Cleland, who was ranked 24th in the Championship Tour.

The WSL said the alleged incident occurred at a private event in Tahiti that was not affiliated with its competition. The organization stated that its disciplinary process was ongoing and that it had offered assistance to relevant authorities.

"The World Surf League confirms that a competitor from the 2026 Men's Championship Tour has been suspended after the WSL was recently informed of allegations of extreme seriousness concerning this competitor." said the World Surf League.

According to Surf Session and TNTV News, the allegations involve an August gathering connected to the period around the Outerknown Tahiti Pro. Reports cited by the outlets said several men were allegedly involved, while authorities were contacted.

"All WSL competitors are required to respect the conduct standards defined in the WSL regulations at all times." said the World Surf League.

The organization said the suspension was intended to protect the integrity of the sport while its review continued. It also said the case was being handled alongside cooperation with competent authorities.

"The World Surf League seeks to preserve the values and integrity of the sport." said the World Surf League.

Noah Klapp, Cleland's former partner, separately accused him of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse during their relationship. She said she made the allegations public after learning of the other claims involving the surfer.

"I regret not speaking earlier and part of me feels guilty for that. Seeing the surf industry put this guy on a pedestal after our relationship: the cool guy, CT surfer, Olympic athlete, always the fun spirit... but behind closed doors: a rapist and an abuser. I know there are many other stories like this in the surf industry and this is the time to take concrete action and stop idealizing abusers." said Noah Klapp.

Klapp's statement received support from figures in professional surfing, while she called for greater accountability in the industry. She also described alleged abuse from her relationship with Cleland when she was 17.

"Alan Cleland Junior abused me for most of our relationship. He often pinned me down on the bed, gripping my wrists with all his strength. He sexually assaulted me many times. He called me names and blocked the bedroom door, refusing to let me leave until he was finished." said Noah Klapp.

Kevin Bourez, a technical official with the Tahitian Surf Federation, condemned the allegations and said no federation surfer was involved in the case. He emphasized that the reported events were outside competition activities.

"This does not reflect a positive image of surfing internationally. What must be understood is that this happened outside the competition, even though it concerns a Championship Tour surfer. Within the Federation, we condemn this type of action 100 percent." said Kevin Bourez.

The case also led to public reactions from other surfers, including Moana Jones Wong, who addressed concerns about abuse and accountability in the sport.

"I am sure everyone who follows the surfing world was shaken today and I, like many others, am disgusted and heartbroken. I cannot remain silent about this. Enough is enough.

I am sick and tired of these disgusting men who abuse women and get away with it. There is no excuse. They must be held accountable.

We need more men protecting women. There are many men who protect, respect, support, and we love them for that. But unfortunately there are also many disgusting people who feel powerful.

What is the gratification or value in hurting a girl or woman?" said Moana Jones Wong.