First 2026 CT qualifier sealed in Saquarema, race to the top reignites I Corona Cero Post Show Day 1

The Challenger Series is back in Saquarema and the electricity is already potent at the Banco do Brasil Saquarema Pro Presented by Corona Cero. The 2026 Championship Tour has its first official qualifier in historic fashion as Tya Zebrowski becomes the youngest to ever qualify at age 14 after an unstoppable run in 2025. Current Challenger Series No. 1 Kauli Vaast kept his winning form intact from Portugal to Saquarema, plus fellow Olympian Billy Stairmand made his early statement. Brazilians thrived in their home country with fans backing them every step of the way. Rafael Teixeira and event wildcards Taina Hinckel and Weslley Dantas led the way into their top-seeded bouts. But, Anat Leilor laid down the standard for women’s proceedings and looks to back up her recent Semifinal finish at Ericeira. Dr. Peanut Top 5 opened with the Extabarri sisters taking down their respective heats, Vaast taking over his debut, Eden Walla finding a buzzer-beater, wildcard stunner from Weslley Dantas, and the No. 1 spot going to Zebrowski’s historic moment. Now, top seeds await following the last two heats of women’s Round of 48 action when competition resumes in Saquarema. World Surf League https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5t7gDAwc38