From May 8 to 10, 2026, Marchica Lagoon Resort will host a landmark event: the Marchica E-Foil Trophy – SFT Surf Foil World Tour E-Foil World Cup 2026. This will be the very first E-Foil World Cup ever held in Africa, marking a historic moment for both Morocco and the continent.
This international event will bring together top national and global riders in Nador, showcasing a fast-growing discipline at the intersection of technology and water sports. Officially part of the 2026 Surf Foil World Tour calendar, this stage represents the third stop of the global circuit, following Düsseldorf (Germany) and Leucate (France), further reflecting the sport’s expansion into emerging destinations.
A Strategic Vision for Territorial Development
This major sporting event aligns with the forward-looking vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, which places regional development and international outreach at the core of Morocco’s priorities. By highlighting the Marchica lagoon, the event strengthens the Mediterranean region’s positioning as a driver of economic growth, tourism, and global visibility.
Organized by Marchica Lagoon Resort and E-foil Morocco, in coordination with the Global Foil Board Sports Association (GFA) and the Surf Foil World Tour, the event is supported by key institutional and private partners, including the Marchica Agency, ONMT, CRT Oriental, and international brands such as Petrom, Red Bull, Lavazza, Eglo, and Lynk&Co.
Nador: An Emerging International Destination
Nador’s selection is no coincidence. The region is undergoing rapid transformation, benefiting from a unique natural ecosystem, expanding infrastructure, and strategic accessibility from Europe. The Marchica lagoon is increasingly recognized as an ideal playground for innovative water sports, combining optimal technical conditions with a preserved natural environment.
As Tarik Kerdoudi, Commercial & Marketing Director of Marchica Lagoon Resort, explains:
“Hosting an event of this scale reflects a clear ambition: to position Marchica Lagoon Resort as a leading international tourism and sports destination, enhancing the region’s visibility and attractiveness.”
E-Foil: A New Generation of Water Sports
E-foil represents a new era in board sports. Equipped with an electric motor and a submerged foil, the board allows riders to glide above the water, offering a smooth, silent, and wind-independent experience.
At the heart of this momentum is Fayçal Guennouni, CEO of E-foil Morocco, whose vision is instrumental in developing the discipline locally. He emphasizes the strategic importance of this milestone:
“Integrating Nador into the Surf Foil World Tour reflects a strong commitment to opening the discipline to emerging territories with exceptional conditions. Morocco stands out today as a natural choice in this expansion.”
Through this leadership, Fayçal Guennouni is positioning Morocco not only as a credible host, but as a future regional hub for innovative water sports.
A High-Level Competition and Immersive Experience
The competition will unfold over three days, featuring a structured format with time-trial qualifiers followed by head-to-head elimination finals. With a total prize pool of 100,000 MAD, the event promises high-level performance and intense competition.
Beyond the races, the Marchica Lagoon Watersports Festival will deliver a full immersive experience, including official ceremonies, cultural activities, and entertainment, all set within the premium environment of Marchica Lagoon Resort and the Atalayoun site.
A New Chapter for Morocco’s Global Influence
More than just a sporting event, this first edition represents a powerful showcase for Morocco. It highlights the country’s ability to host next-generation international competitions and to support the rise of innovative sports.
With this initiative, Nador is establishing itself as a new anchor point for global water sports—where innovation, tourism, and territorial development converge.
