British surfer Arran Strong, 28, is presumed to have died after official searches for him off the Portuguese coast were halted. Strong went missing on Monday morning while stand-up paddleboarding near Arrifana Beach in southern Portugal.
The National Maritime Authority (AMN) confirmed the suspension of its search efforts on Wednesday night, stating on its official website that "the search was called off early (on Wednesday) evening without the victim being located."
Strong reportedly disappeared at sea after encountering difficulties while attempting to cross from Monte Clerigo Beach to Carrapateira. His friend, who was accompanying him, was rescued by a local fishing vessel, which also recovered Strong’s paddleboard.
GB Surfing expressed profound sorrow on Instagram, stating it was "deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Arran Strong." The organisation highlighted his achievements, noting he was the highest-placed British male surfer at both the 2024 and 2025 ISA World Surf Games.