Home Showbiz A historic first for Africa: Nador, world capital of E

A historic first for Africa: Nador, world capital of E

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Competition
It is a historic first for the African continent. The prestigious Marchica Lagoon Resort, located in Nador, becomes the center of the E-Foil World Cup. By hosting this futuristic discipline combining technology and gliding, the Kingdom asserts its position as a leader in innovative water sports and puts the Oriental region in the spotlight of the international sports scene.

Until now reserved for the most exclusive spots in Europe or America, the E-Foil World Cup takes a new step by settling in Morocco. This choice is not random: it reflects the country’s ambition to diversify its tourist and sports offerings. By becoming the first African country to host this competition, Morocco proves that it is ready to tackle the logistical and technological challenges imposed by such a discipline.
The event will take place from May 8 to 10 at Marchica Lagoon Resort, the center of the Marchica E-Foil Trophy – SFT Surf Foil World Tour E-Foil World Cup 2026, the first E-Foil World Cup in Africa.
This internationally significant event will bring together, in Nador, the best national and international riders around a discipline that is emerging, at the intersection of technology and water sports.

When surfing meets aerospace
For the uninitiated, the E-Foil (or electric hydrofoil) is the new revolution in water sports. Thanks to an electric motor and a wing submerged under the board, the rider rises above the water as soon as the speed is sufficient. This silent “flying” sensation, without the need for waves or wind, offers a visually stunning spectacle, particularly well-suited to the serene setting of a lagoon.

A true regional catalyst
As part of the official schedule of the Surf Foil World Tour 2026, this stage represents the third dedicated e-foil event within the 2026 global circuit after the stages in Düsseldorf, Germany & Leucate, France.
This sports event fully aligns with the vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who places the integrated development of regions at the heart of national priorities. By showcasing the Marchica lagoon as a strategic space at the crossroads of economic, tourist, and cultural dynamics, this event contributes to strengthening the Kingdom’s Mediterranean anchoring and making this facade a true lever for growth, openness, and international influence.
Brought by Marchica Lagoon Resort & E-foil Morocco in coordination with the GFA (Global Foil Board Sports Association) and the Surf Foil World Tour, this event is organized with the support of the Marchica Agency, Marchica Med, the ONMT, and the CRT of the Oriental as Platinum Partners as well as Gold Partners, Petrom, Red Bull, Lavazza, Eglo, Lynk&Co.

Marchica: A natural and technological haven
The choice of Nador and the Marchica lagoon is part of a strong territorial transformation dynamic. Emerging destination on the Mediterranean coast, the region benefits from a rare natural ecosystem, developing infrastructure, and strategic accessibility from Europe.
Beyond its intrinsic qualities, the Marchica lagoon is now established as a privileged space for innovative water sports, combining optimal technical conditions and a preserved natural environment.

A demanding competition, a global experience
The competition will take place over three days, following a structured format combining sporting demands and readability for the public. After a welcoming and preparation phase, riders will compete in qualifying time trials before moving on to the final round in direct elimination format.
With a total prize money of 100,000 MAD, the event will bring together different categories of competitors and promises a high level of performance.