The world champion from Limassol makes his debut in the top category of the UIM MotoSurf World Championship
UIM MotoSurf Grand Prix Türkiye, 12–14 June 2026
LIMASSOL, Cyprus – 10 June 2026 – Cypriot athlete Mike Michaelides is set to compete in the first race of the 2026 UIM MotoSurf World Championship season, to be held in Turkey from 12 to 14 June 2026. This race marks the official season opener, as the originally scheduled event in Fujairah, UAE, was cancelled due to the situation in the Middle East.
The Elite Class: The Formula 1 of MotoSurf
For the first time in his career, Michaelides will compete in the Elite Class — the highest, fastest, and most competitive category of the UIM MotoSurf World Championship. If Formula 1 is the ultimate pinnacle of motorsport, the Elite Class is precisely that for MotoSurf: cutting-edge machinery, elite athletes from around the world, and zero margin for error. Entry into this category is in itself a recognition of exceptional athletic merit.
A World Title in the Luggage
Mike Michaelides arrives in Turkey brimming with confidence, having claimed the world championship title in the Merlin Plus Stock R category at the spectacular 2025 season finale in Macau. That victory was described as one of the most dramatic in the sport’s history, as the Cypriot athlete made a heroic charge to the title in a finale that moved the global MotoSurf community. That title opened the door to the Elite Class — and Michaelides did not hesitate to take the next step.
GP Türkiye – The Grand Season Premiere
The GP Türkiye is the first official race of the 2026 UIM MotoSurf World Championship and is expected to attract the world’s top MotoSurf athletes. The event is sanctioned by the UIM (Union Internationale Motonautique), which operates under the patronage of the IOC (International Olympic Committee). Michaelides will look to establish his position at the sharp end of the new class from the very first corner.
“I’m really looking forward to this race. The Turkey GP is a great way to open the season and I’m ready to compete at the highest level. The 2025 title gave me even more experience and confidence — my goal is to prove that I belong in the Elite Class.” — Mike Michaelides, 2025 MotoSurf World Champion
RACE DETAILS
| Event | UIM MotoSurf World Championship – GP Türkiye 2026 |
| Dates | 12–14 June 2026 |
| Category | Elite Class (top tier) |
| Athlete | Mike Michaelides (Cyprus) — 2025 World Champion |
| More info | motosurfworldcup.com mikemichaelides.com |
Press Contact PJA Press | PJA Media Services Ltd | Limassol, Cyprus Tel: +357 97 801701
