Brief

World Surf League suspends Alan Cleland Jr. over alleged assault in Tahiti

The WSL acted after being alerted to allegations concerning the 24‑year‑old competitor during the Teahupo’o stop.

By Felo News Desk · Published Tue, 13 Oct 2026 10:50:24 GMT

The World Surf League (WSL) announced a provisional suspension of 24‑year‑old surfer Alan Cleland Jr. after being made aware of alleged sexual assault involving a New South Wales teenager at a private gathering in Tahiti during the Championship Tour’s seventh stop, held between August 8 and August 18.

Cleland, who joined the men’s Championship Tour last year and represented Mexico at the 2024 Olympic Games, was removed from the league’s rankings and from sponsor Quicksilver’s website. The WSL statement said the Discipline Committee acted promptly and will continue to cooperate with authorities.

Spokespeople for NSW Police and the Australian Federal Police said the matter is being handled by local police in French Polynesia, while French Polynesian police could not confirm an active investigation.

Key facts

Alan Cleland Jr., 24, was provisionally suspended by the WSL over alleged sexual assault of a NSW teenager in Tahiti. (smh.com.au)
The alleged incident occurred at a private gathering during the Championship Tour’s Teahupo’o stop (August 8‑18, 2026). (smh.com.au)
Cleland was removed from WSL rankings and from sponsor Quicksilver’s website. (smh.com.au)
NSW Police, Australian Federal Police and French Polynesian police are involved or aware of the case. (smh.com.au)