Phantomfoiling - OFFICIAL STATEMENT
PHANTOM Withdraws from the PWA Tour Effective Immediately
After multiple discussions with the PWA management board, we regret to announce that Phantom will be retiring from the PWA Tour with immediate effect. Despite our best efforts, we were unable to reach an agreement that aligns with the realities of the current market and our values as a brand.
The windsurfing industry is currently facing an unprecedented crisis, with a dramatic decline in global demand. Most brands, including ours, have been operating at a loss over the past few years. In this context, the financial demands imposed by the PWA—particularly the high fees required to participate on the tour—have become unsustainable.
Quite simply, the PWA costs more than it delivers.
Phantom has been one of the most active and committed brands on the PWA Tour in recent years. We’ve invested in cutting-edge gear, supported top athletes, and proudly celebrated three world titles. However, instead of being rewarded for this dedication, we have been penalized with additional fees tied to our success.
In most professional sports—such as Formula One—teams are rewarded based on performance, with prize money distributed accordingly. This is not only fair but essential to sustaining a competitive ecosystem. Unfortunately, the current PWA model does not reflect this.
While we are stepping back from the tour, we wish all the best to our team riders.
Alex Udin
CEO, Phantom
