Filipe Toledo is sharper, more balanced, and fully re-centred in his competitive approach coming into Bells. Photo: WSL
There’s a different kind of clarity around Filipe Toledo heading into the 2026 Championship Tour season opener at Bells Beach.
After a year of readjustment in 2025 — returning to the tour, rebuilding rhythm, and finding his footing again at the elite level — the two-time world champion now arrives feeling sharper, more balanced, and fully re-centered in his competitive approach.
“Last year was really important in terms of readjustment — getting back into the rhythm of competition and understanding everything again,” Toledo told me. “This year, I feel more prepared in every aspect. Physically better, mentally more balanced, and with a stronger sense of confidence. I feel like I’m coming into this season as a more complete surfer.”
Off the water, life has shifted too. The September birth of his third child, Zain, marked another milestone in what is already a transformative period. Two months later, Toledo and his family made a significant move, leaving California after more than a decade to settle in Rio de Janeiro. It’s a change that already seems to be paying off.
“It’s been really good,” he explained. “Rio has always had a special energy for me, and now being able to live that on a daily basis is different. I already feel at home. I’ve been enjoying surfing a lot, seeing friends, building a routine… that’s been important for the adaptation. I’m really happy with this start.”
Toledo rung the Bells Beach bell in 2022 along with Tyler Wright. Photo: WSL
It’s also a place tied to some of the most meaningful moments of his career. Toledo has won four CT events in Brazil, and the last time he truly lit up in front of a home crowd, he went on to secure a world title in 2022. So when asked which stop he would most like to win this season, his answer came without hesitation.
“Saquarema, for sure,” he answered. “It’s an event that has always been very special to me — the energy, the crowd, everything about competing there. And now, with Rio being my home, it means even more. Winning in Saquarema would be something really special.”
Of course, another world title won’t come easily. The Brazilian Storm remains strong, with names like Yago Dora, Gabriel Medina, and Italo Ferreira all firmly in the mix. And beyond Brazil, there are clear threats as well.
“I believe the Brazilians, for sure — Yago, Gabriel, Italo and myself — we have very strong names to fight for the title until the end,” Toledo said. “Among the international guys, Griffin (Colapinto) is someone I see with the potential to really challenge throughout the season.”
If history is any indication, Toledo has every reason to feel optimistic about starting strong in Australia. At Bells, he holds an impressive record: a runner-up finish in 2019, a victory in 2022, and a third place in 2023.
Not a bad résumé for someone looking to ring the bell once again and set the tone for a season where, by all accounts, he feels more complete than ever.
The event window for the Championship Tour season opener at Bells Beach runs from April 1-11. Watch the Bells live at WorldSurfLeague.com.
