The global surfing community is mourning the tragic loss of British professional surfer Arran Strong, who is presumed dead after going missing off Portugal’s Algarve region.
Strong, 27, vanished while accompanying long-distance stand-up paddleboarder and long-time mentor José Maria Pyrrait along the rugged coastline near Arrifana Beach.
Following an extensive multi-agency maritime search, Portuguese authorities officially called off operations, leaving the surf world in devastating grief. See Pyrrait’s tribute here.
The tragedy occurred roughly a mile offshore between Monte Clérigo and Carrapateira. Pyrrait recounted stopping briefly to drink water and take photos before continuing. Shortly after resuming, Pyrrait noticed Strong’s paddleboard drifting alone about 100 meters away.
Despite diving repeatedly into deep waters with poor visibility and searching the area for hours using a local fisherman’s boat sonar, no trace of the British competitor was found.
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In an emotional tribute shared on social media, Pyrrait expressed profound heartbreak, describing Strong as family:
“Arran was like a son to me; since he was 10 years old, he trained with me and spent weekends and holidays with me… At this moment I feel a deep pain; the faint consolation remains that he left at sea, a place he loved so much.”
Currently ranked number one on the World Surf League’s Championship Tour, Leonardo Fioravanti of Italy, commented:
“Special human always with a smile. Rest in peace Arran.”
GB Surfing paid tribute to the Ericeira-based waterman, who served as the highest-placed British male competitor at both the 2024 and 2025 ISA World Surf Games:
“Beyond his performances in the water, Arran was a fantastic teammate, respected competitor, and a kind, generous presence whose passion for surfing left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His passing is a devastating loss to our sport.”
Diagnosed as an infant with Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency—a rare genetic condition affecting the lungs and liver—Strong turned to the ocean for healing, evolving into a powerhouse in heavy waves and a beloved competitor across Europe.
His resilience, generosity, and unwavering devotion to the ocean leave an enduring legacy across the international surfing world.
A tragic loss. Rest in peace.
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