Tributes are paid to surfer Arran Strong after authorities confirmed the end of search operations for the British athlete who disappeared off the coast of Portugal.
The National Maritime Authority (AMN) confirmed on July 30, 2026 that the search for the 28-year-old surfer had been completed. Operations had begun on July 27, 2026, shortly after his disappearance was reported.
Arran Strong was based in Portugal and built a remarkable career in the sport, competing in the World Surfing League for a decade and representing Great Britain at the last two editions of the World Surfing Games, achieving the highest ranking among Brits on both occasions.
“In addition to his performances in the water, Arran was a fantastic teammate, a respected competitor and a kind, generous presence whose passion for surfing left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him,” the GB Surfing organization said in a statement released on July 28, 2026.
GB Surfing’s statement added: “His passing is a devastating loss for our sport and the surfing community in general, and he will be greatly missed.”
“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with Arran’s family, friends, teammates and all those whose lives he touched,” the statement concluded.
Details of Arran Strong’s disappearance
AMN said it was alerted to difficulties faced by Strong at sea along the Atlantic coast in southern Portugal at 11:33 BST on 27 July 2026.
The institution reported: “The young man disappeared at sea while crossing from Monte Clerigo beach to Carrapateira.”
According to AMN, “His friend, who was with him, was rescued by a local fishing boat that was nearby.”
The friend was José Maria Pyrrait, Strong’s trainer, who reported not having seen the exact moment Strong disappeared.
Pyrrait detailed on Instagram that they stopped to drink water and take photos before resuming their journey, with Strong initially in the lead, before a bus overtook him.
The report of friend and coach José Maria Pyrrait
“When I stopped to wait, I saw his board drifting about 100 meters away,” wrote José Maria Pyrrait.
“I paddled as fast as I could to get there, diving repeatedly looking for him, but we were in a deep area and visibility was very low. I called my partner on land for help, who automatically triggered the rescue,” added the coach.
Pyrrait said they spent another two and a half hours searching for Strong from the boat.
“Arran was like a son to me. From the age of 10, he trained with me and spent weekends and holidays with me; as his mother said, he was like a son of divorced parents. My love for him was like that of another son that life gave me,” he declared in his publication.
Pyrrait concluded, “Rest in peace, my ‘son’.”
Goodbye messages from surfing colleagues and friends
Several of Strong’s teammates and surfing friends paid their respects on social media.
Luke Dillon, surf coach for the British team, wrote: “Very heavy hearts. Fought so many battles and lived life to the full, always with a smile and an infectious laugh. Sending love to Arran’s family and friends.”
Lucy Campbell, who was an eight-time British national champion, wrote: “The world will miss that smile so much. Sending my love and hugs to you all.”
Alys Barton, also an English surfing champion, expressed: “Arran, we competed together for so many years and you were always the one encouraging everyone around you.”
“Thank you for always smiling, believing in others and cheering everyone up. We will miss you so much,” concluded Alys.
