RASZYN, Poland – In a landmark partnership, Yago Dora, the reigning world champion surfer, has become the first athlete in his sport to be sponsored by the Swiss performance sportswear brand, On. The announcement, made by On, positions Dora as a key “training and lifestyle ambassador” for the brand in Brazil.
The move signifies On’s continued expansion into diverse athletic disciplines, adding surfing to a roster that already includes prominent names like Polish tennis star Iga Świątek, American tennis player Ben Shelton, Italian tennis pro Flavio Cobolli, Spanish athlete Marta García, and Moroccan athlete Mohamed Attaoui. This expansion reflects a broader strategy to connect with athletes who embody a commitment to performance and a holistic approach to training.
Dora recently produced a short film showcasing his surfing, training regimen, and mindfulness practices, offering a glimpse into his dedication both in and out of the water. The film serves as an introduction to his partnership with On, highlighting the brand’s alignment with his active lifestyle.
On, known for its innovative footwear and apparel, has quickly gained traction in the athletic world. A significant figure in the brand’s success is Roger Federer, who has been involved with On since its inception. Federer’s influence and investment have played a crucial role in shaping the brand’s identity and attracting top-tier athletes.
Świątek, currently ranked No. 3 in women’s singles by the WTA, has held the world No. 1 ranking for a total of 125 weeks. She has won 25 WTA Tour–level singles titles, including six major titles: four at the French Open, one at Wimbledon, and one at the US Open. Her success on the court, combined with her dedication to training, makes her a fitting ambassador for On’s performance-focused products.
Ben Shelton, a rising star in men’s tennis, has also joined the On team, bringing a dynamic and energetic presence to the brand. His powerful serve and aggressive playing style resonate with On’s commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging conventions.
The addition of Dora to On’s athlete roster is particularly noteworthy as it marks the brand’s first foray into the world of surfing. This strategic move allows On to tap into a passionate and growing community of athletes and enthusiasts. The surfing world, known for its demanding physical requirements and emphasis on innovation, presents a unique opportunity for On to showcase its performance technology.
The partnership between On and Dora is expected to extend beyond mere sponsorship. The brand plans to collaborate with Dora on product development, leveraging his expertise and feedback to create innovative gear tailored to the specific needs of surfers. This collaborative approach underscores On’s commitment to working closely with athletes to deliver cutting-edge performance solutions.
For Dora, the partnership with On represents a significant milestone in his career. It provides him with access to world-class training resources and the opportunity to collaborate with a brand that shares his values of performance, innovation, and sustainability. The partnership is also expected to elevate his profile and reach a wider audience.
As of March 16, 2026, Iga Świątek remains a prominent figure in women’s tennis, holding the No. 3 ranking. Her continued success and influence on the sport solidify her position as a leading ambassador for On. The brand’s commitment to supporting elite athletes across a variety of disciplines demonstrates its ambition to become a global leader in performance sportswear.
Looking ahead, Dora is preparing for the upcoming surfing season, with his sights set on defending his world title. He will be representing On at all major competitions, showcasing the brand’s products to a global audience. Fans can expect to notice Dora sporting On’s latest innovations both in and out of the water.
The partnership between Yago Dora and On is a testament to the growing convergence of sports and lifestyle. As athletes increasingly prioritize holistic well-being and seek brands that align with their values, partnerships like this are poised to become more common. On’s commitment to innovation and its growing roster of elite athletes position the brand for continued success in the years to come.
What’s Next: Dora will compete in the next WSL event, the Margaret River Pro in Western Australia, beginning April 11, 2026. Fans can follow his progress and On’s latest updates on the brand’s official website and social media channels.
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