The World Surf League has provisionally suspended Alan Cleland Jr from the Championship Tour after saying it was made aware of allegations of a deeply serious nature involving the competitor. The decision removes him from all WSL events while the league continues its process.
The league said the matter came to light after allegations relating to an incident in Tahiti in August involving a NSW teenager. It also said the alleged assault took place at a private gathering that was not affiliated with the competition, and that three other alleged perpetrators are not affiliated with the league.
WSL: prompt action after allegations emerged
In a statement on Sunday, the World Surf League said its Discipline Committee had taken prompt action and issued a provisional suspension. The league also said it is continuing to follow its process and has offered assistance to relevant authorities.
After that statement, Alan Cleland Jr was removed from the competition rankings and from Quiksilver’s website.
What the suspension means
Cleland had joined the Championship Tour last year and competed for Mexico at the 2024 Olympic Games. He is also part of the 2026 Men’s Championship Tour, but that status has now been interrupted by the provisional ban.
The timing is notable because Teahupo’o in Tahiti has already featured on the Championship Tour schedule and was also used for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The league has not said anything beyond its ongoing process, but the immediate action leaves Cleland out of WSL competition while the case is handled.
