Red Funnel Unveils Star-Studded Isle of Wight Ambassadors for 2026

Red Funnel has unveiled its Island Ambassadors for 2026, celebrating a wide range of Isle of Wight talent across music, sport and community life.

The programme supports individuals, teams and organisations who proudly represent the Island on national and international stages, helping them travel, compete and grow their ambitions.

Among the headline ambassadors for 2026 are Island indie rock band Coach Party, who continue to gain major UK and international recognition, alongside elite athletes from a broad mix of disciplines.

They include taekwondo vice-captain Joe Ramskill, Brazilian jiu-jitsu champion Corey Kent, professional darts player Keegan Brown, strongman Ross Cosgrove, international kitesurfer Tom Court, and recurve archer Summer Chambers, who is already ranked second in her age group nationally.

Young talent is also strongly represented, from competitive dancers and gymnasts to skateboarders, scooter riders and table tennis players, as well as rising stars such as Jess Burfitt, Ryan Cates and the Fantastic Four junior gymnastics team.

Red Funnel is also continuing its backing of Island sports clubs and community teams in 2026, including Ventnor Rugby Club, Isle of Wight Rugby Club, Ventnor Cricket Club, East Cowes Vics, Newport IOW FC, Solent Netball, West Wight Swimming Club, Vectis Equestrian Club, Isle of Wight Squash, Panther Kickboxing, NAUT Cycling Club, and The Starlight Academy.

In addition, the ferry operator is supporting a wide range of individual athletes through its Supported Talent scheme, from professional MMA fighter Connor Tymon and young footballer Kian Symmans, to equestrian competitors, sailors, golfers, dog sled racers and even professional Pokémon player Cass Morey, who competes at world championships around the globe.

Red Funnel says the ambassador programme is about recognising dedication, ambition and achievement, while helping Island talent stay connected to opportunities beyond the Solent.

The full list of ambassadors, supported teams and supported talent will represent the Isle of Wight throughout 2026 at competitions, events and performances across the UK and internationally.