Australian Junior Surf Team Chasing Historic World Title Hat-Trick

Australia’s next generation of surfing stars is preparing to defend its world crown after Surfing Australia announced the 12-member Irukandjis team for the 2026 ISA World Junior Surfing Championships in El Salvador.

The championships will be held from September 4 to 13, with Australia aiming to secure an unprecedented third consecutive team gold medal after winning the past two world titles.

Leading the squad is defending ISA Under-16 World Champion Ocean Lancaster from Merewether, who returns alongside 2025 bronze medallists Caden Francis from Coolangatta and Lucy Darragh from Gerringong.

The team was selected based on performances at the 2025 Australian Junior Surfing Titles, Australian Junior Series rankings and wildcard selections, bringing together Australia’s top emerging surfers.

Northern Rivers talent features strongly, with Ashton Crowley (Lennox Head), Leihani Zoric (Broken Head) and Rio Luther Barr (Bellingen) all earning places in the national team.

Surfing Australia’s Head of Pathway Programs, Luke Macdonald, said the squad combined proven performers with exciting new talent.

“As 2024 and 2025 world champions, we know the target on our back is bigger than ever, and this team is ready for that challenge,” he said.

The team will attend a preparation camp at the Surfing Australia Hyundai High Performance Centre before travelling to El Salvador, where athletes will prepare for the challenging waves at La Bocana and El Sunzal.

Australia remains the most successful nation in ISA World Junior Surfing Championship history, producing numerous world champions and future World Surf League stars through the prestigious event.

With experienced medal winners and a talented group of newcomers, the Irukandjis will be aiming to continue Australia’s remarkable dominance on the world stage.