In what is likely to be the biggest sponsorship announcement of this year, Nathan Florence has officially signed with Red Bull.
As one of the most successful freesurfers in history, who utilized social media to the fullest extent to build his own brand, Nathan has now joined fellow Hawaiian surfers Kai Lenny, Jamie O’Brien, and Ian Walsh on the world’s most coveted team across a multitude of sports from surfing to Formula 1.
In the announcement on his vlog, Nate says, “Guys, for the last 3 or 4 years we have gone as hard as we could. Gone as many trips as we could in a year. Spent everything we could. Built a YouTube, you guys are a part of that journey. Sent some of the craziest waves I could find. Gone on some remote journeys, solo, to crazy waves. We have attracted the attention of one of the biggest brands in extreme action sports history. I couldn’t be more excited to announce that Red Bull, and I, have partnered, come together, to fuel the wings to the Slab Tour. The Slab tour just got its wings!”
This is nothing short of a match made in sports deal heaven as Florence is an undeniable force who yields massive influence with his mind-blowing skills, most evident in his signature Slab Tour series. Not only is he one of the most fearless and determined surfers of our time, he’s an extremely likable figure who is loved and respected by surfers of all ages from all corners of the globe.
Joining Red Bull follows up on his high-profile decision last year to sign with Florence, the apparel line started by his older brother John John, alongside younger brother Ivan, making their namesake brand a true family affair. It goes without saying that this must have been a considerably big deal in the realm of surf contracts. Given his track record of charging the gnarliest waves on the planet, whatever the figure was, Nathan Florence deserves it.
Bravo, Nate. We can’t wait to see what you do next.
Related: From Hawaii to Ireland, Nathan Florence Meets Hurricane Erin at Mullaghmore