ABF 2026 Officially Launches, Confirming “Nilda Point” as the Global Epicenter of Bodyboarding

• Presented by Escondida | BHP since 2012, this sporting milestone has solidified itself as a premier international platform for bodyboarding, hosting nearly 2,000 national and international athletes throughout its history.
• The world championship runs from April 29 to May 10, featuring global icons such as World Champion Tristan Roberts and other top-tier professional riders.

A Global Stage at Nilda Point

From April 29 to May 10, the city of Antofagasta will be the heart of the Antofagasta Bodyboard Festival (ABF) 2026. The event spotlights the powerful “Nilda Point” wave, gathering over 70 world-class riders from every corner of the globe.

Supported by Escondida | BHP for over a decade, the championship takes place in the city’s northern sector—an area renowned for its elite natural conditions, perfect for professional bodyboarding.

Crowning World Champions

In this edition, the festival will crown the Dropknee World Champion, as it serves as the only stop on the world tour for this specific discipline. Additionally, the Men’s Open Pro category will be contested, ensuring a high-stakes battle among the world’s best exponents.

Festival Director Arturo Soto highlighted the event’s impact:

“This event seeks not only to position Antofagasta on the world circuit but also to highlight the value of our northern coastline and bring the sport to the community. We want these spaces to be recognized as hubs for sports, tourism, and family life.”

A Regional Legacy

Pablo Pisani, Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Communications at Escondida | BHP, noted:

“For over 15 years, our company has consistently driven this activity, convinced of its sporting and territorial value. Today, the ABF is a regional landmark that puts Antofagasta at the epicenter of the global bodyboarding scene.”

Sacha Razmilic, Mayor of Antofagasta, added:

“Our commune has unique conditions, and this world championship allows us to show them to the world. We are proud to host an event that projects Antofagasta far beyond the economic sphere, fostering tourism and international prestige.”

Competition & Community

Rounds will take place at the Parque Los Pinares sector, typically between 07:00 and 13:00, depending on sea conditions. Each day concludes with community activities, including a music festival featuring local bands, blending sport, culture, and family atmosphere.

Today, Thursday the 30th, the organization has declared a Lay Day while waiting for better conditions.

Tomorrow, Friday, there will be a check-in for competitors and staff at 7:00 AM. If conditions are suitable, the competition may begin at 7:30 AM local time.

Stay tuned to our various media channels for all updates regarding this major event, and remember you can follow the action LIVE at www.ibcworldtour.com.

Event Details:

• Dates: April 29 – May 10, 2026.
• Location: La Nilda, Antofagasta, Chile.
• Divisions: * Men Prime Series: ($35,000 / 5,000 pts)
• DropKnee World Championship: ($10,000)

Hosted by:

• Minera Escondida BHP
• Municipality of Antofagasta
• Club Budeo

Partners & Collaborators:

• Antofagasta Minerals | Colbún | Abastible | Carnicerías Arauco
• Media Partners: Antofagasta Televisión | El Mercurio de Antofagasta

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• Instagram: @ibcworld_tour
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