Backed by ONMT’s destination-focused strategy, the Safi Surf Invitational has strengthened the city’s attractiveness and contributed to the region’s cultural and tourism momentum. Blending adrenaline, culture, and solidarity.

Safi Surf Invitational Positions Morocco as a Global Surf Powerhouse

Marrakech – The second edition of the Safi Surf Invitational concluded in spectacular fashion on the world-renowned wave of Ras Lafâa, reaffirming Morocco’s growing leadership in the global surf ecosystem.

Organized by the Association Bahri under the aegis of the FRMSB, in partnership with OCP Group, and supported by the ONMT through Visit Morocco, Visit Marrakech and Visit Safi, the event delivered both sporting excellence and strategic territorial impact.

Over three high-intensity days, 80 surfers and bodyboarders from 16 countries competed in continuous daytime heats, culminating in a standout night-surfing final, enabled by an innovative lighting system.

The event drew 15,000 visitors, with peak attendance during the illuminated final that transformed Ras Lafâa into a natural stadium for surf enthusiasts.

Beyond sport performance, the Invitational positioned Safi as a model for integrated cultural and sustainable development.

The festival offered free stands to local cooperatives, highlighting the region’s artisanal and culinary heritage — ranging from capers and pottery to terroir products, pastries including Safi’s iconic Kaak Masabane, and a dedicated sardine showcase celebrating the city’s maritime identity.

Environmental and social engagement were at the heart of the event’s strategy. Organizers led a coastal clean-up and held free surf lessons for children with motor disabilities from Al Karam and Al Qalam associations, with participation from both men’s and women’s finalists.

Competition Results

For the men’s Bodyboard category, these are winners in chronological order: Bodyboard – Men Armide Soliveres (Canary Islands); Badr Eddine Chajri (Morocco); Maxime Castillo (France); Achraf El Ghazi (Morocco).

For men’s surf category, these are the winners in chronological order:

Joan Duru (France); Adur Amatrian (Spain); Charly Quivront (France); Marc Lacomare (France).

In the women’s surf category, these are the winners in chronological order: Lilia Tebbai (Morocco); Maud Le Car (France); Lee Ann Curren (France); Jade Magnien (France).

The closing ceremony was attended by regional authorities and representatives of OCP Group, underscoring the institutional importance of an event that elevates Safi’s international visibility.

For Saad Abid, founder of Association Bahri, the Invitational is “more than a competition, it is a celebration of passion, community, and environmental responsibility, while showcasing Safi on the global stage.”