There is a lot of pressure on Fanning as he makes his way to Portugal. Photo: ASP
Surfers will be battling for this year’s World Title crown at Supertubos in Peniche, Portugal, October 9th through 20th. Supertubos, which has been nicknamed “The European Pipe,” is known for its hollow beach break. The Rip Curl Pro Portugal will mark stop 9 of 10 on the 2013 World Championship Tour. Heading to Peniche, five contenders remain: Mick Fanning, Kelly Slater, Jordy Smith, Taj Burrow and Joel Parkinson.
The ASP broke down the title scenarios for us mathematically:
If Fanning wins the event: Slater will need a third or better to take the title decision to Hawaii. Smith, Burrow and Parkinson will be out of the race.
If Fanning finishes runner-up in Portugal: Slater will need a ninth or better to take the title decision to Hawaii. Smith will need to win the event to take the title decision to Hawaii. Burrow and Parkinson will be out of the race.
If Fanning finishes third in Portugal: Slater will need a ninth or better to take the title decision to Hawaii. Smith, Burrow or Parkinson will need to win the event to take the title decision to Hawaii.
If Fanning finishes fifth or worse in Portugal: The ASP World Title decision will go to Hawaii as, even with a 25th in Portugal, Slater can still win in Hawaii.
A live webcast of the event is available at Rip Curl.
