British surfer Arran Strong presumed dead after search called off off Portugal coast

British professional surfer Arran Strong has been presumed dead after Portuguese authorities called off an extensive search for the 28-year-old, who disappeared while paddleboarding off the country's Algarve coast earlier this week.

According to Portugal's National Maritime Authority (AMN), Strong went missing on Monday while attempting a sea crossing from Monte Clérigo Beach to Carrapateira. Search and rescue teams spent several days combing the area before officially ending the operation on Wednesday evening after finding no trace of him.

Strong had been paddleboarding with his long-time coach and mentor, José Maria Pyrrait, who shared a heartbreaking tribute describing the surfer as "like a son". Pyrrait said the pair had briefly stopped near Arrifana to drink water and take photographs before continuing their journey. He allowed Strong to paddle ahead, as was their usual routine, but later noticed his board drifting alone around 100 metres away. Despite repeatedly diving into the water and searching the area with the help of a local fisherman, he was unable to find him.

GB Surfing paid tribute to Strong in a statement, describing his presumed death as a devastating loss for the sport. The governing body noted that he proudly represented Great Britain at the 2024 and 2025 ISA World Surf Games, finishing as the team's highest-placed male surfer at both events. It also remembered him as a respected competitor, a valued teammate and a kind, generous presence whose passion for surfing left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Strong had been based in Portugal for several years and was regarded as one of Britain's leading surfers. Tributes have since poured in from across the international surfing community, with fellow athletes, coaches and fans remembering his talent, warmth and dedication to the sport.