Middletown (Del.) Appoquinimink four-star offensive tackle Layton von Brandt backed off an early commitment to Penn State once it fired head coach James Franklin. Plenty of programs have gotten in the mix for his pledge since.
The blue-chipper is now hearing out pitches from coaching staffs. He’s been visited by plenty early on this year, and on Tuesday, he revealed that he has a lengthy spring visit schedule locked in himself.
The 6-foot-5.5, 255-pounder is the No. 48 overall prospect and No. 6 OT in the 2027 cycle, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all major recruiting media companies. He’s also the top-ranked recruit in Delaware.
Back in December, von Brandt named his top eight schools. Each of the six aforementioned schools made the cut along with Ohio State and LSU.
“My recruitment is still open, so I’m interested in building a relationship with anyone that wants to build one with me,” von Brandt told Rivals’ Chad Simmons in December. “Where that goes in the future, only time will tell.”
“Layton von Brandt stacks up pretty well in the 2027 OL group,” Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings Charles Power previously wrote of the tackle. “He’s got good length and I think he’s got a lot of room to continue filling out. I really liked his movement skills at the position. I thought he was a nimble mover, fluid and a guy who looks pretty athletic. So, when you’re looking at him long-term, I like where he stacks up.”
Less than a week after the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) deemed Oakwood Adventist Academy (Ala.) ineligible for the Class 1A postseason, the association had to reverse course on Tuesday.
According to a statement by AHSAA executive director Heath Harmon, the association will allow Oakwood Adventist Academy to participate in the state’s Class 1A boys basketball tournament to obey a court injunction. Oakwood Adventist had been previously eliminated from the Class 1A state playoffs due to exceeding the 30-game rule for the regular season. The Mustangs had made an appeal to the AHSAA’s Central Board of Control, which was denied.
“The Montgomery County Circuit Court has entered a TRO that Oakwood Adventist Academy be allowed to participate in the Area 16 Basketball Tournament. The AHSAA will abide by the Court’s Order,” Harmon said in the official statement on allowing Oakwood Adventist Academy to participate in the postseason.
Oakwood Adventist Academy, which is has a overall record of 15-16, had broken the 30-game maximum limit a basketball team can play during the regular season. The Mustangs played their 31st game of the season in a 65-43 loss to Whitesburg Christian Academy.
If Oakwood Adventist Academy didn’t play the Feb. 3rd matchup against Whitesburg Christian academy, they would’ve remained an eligible participant for the AHSAA postseason. The Mustangs without the injunction would have been watching from afar as the program is one of the favorites to win a Class 1A state championship this winter.
Last season, the Mustangs finished the 2024-25 season with a record of 25-9 and reached the Class 1A state semifinals.
How to Follow Alabama High School Boys Basketball
For Alabama high school boys basketball fans looking to keep up with scores around the Yellowhammer State, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the state, ensuring you never miss a moment of the high school boys basketball action throughout the season. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the high school boys basketball excitement across the state of Alabama.
Adam Oumiddoch, a four-star shooting guard in the 2026 class, has requested his release from St. John’s and will reopen his recruitment, he told Rivals.
The 6-foot-5 senior out of Overtime Elite (GA) committed and signed with the Red Storm in November.
With Oumiddoch now back on the board, St. John’s now has zero commitments in the 2026 class.
Prior to choosing Rick Pitino and the Johnnies, Oumiddoch considered Illinois, LSU, Oregon, and Villanova.
The Arlington, Virginia native is ranked as the No. 58 overall player in the 2026 class, according to Rivals Industry Ranking. He’s also the No. 15 ranked shooting guard.
During the regular season at Overtime Elite, Oumiddoch averaged 28.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. He shot nearly 50% from the field.
St. John’s is currently 19-5 on the season and are 12-1 in Big East play, tied for first place with UConn.
When you think of the state of New York in relation to high school sports, you probably think of basketball right off rip. What is a bit underrated in the state, however, is some of the high school football talent that’s begun to come out of the Empire State.
A team that was in the conversation throughout the 2025 high school football season that figures to do so again is the St. Anthony’s Friars (NY), which released their official 2026 schedule via social media on Monday night.
The Friars are a private school that plays against many of New York’ s top catholic football programs and with the slate of games they have on tap for 2026, not much will be changing this upcoming fall.
St. Anthony’s reached the second round of the New York Catholic High School Football League (NYCHSFL) playoffs, falling to eventual state champion Iona Preparatory School, 42-0. When it comes to high school football teams out of the Empire State, the Friars are as good as they come as St. Anthony’s are slated to return one of the best running backs out of the Northeast in 2027 four-star Xavier Bala along with 2028 6-foot-5, 295-pound offensive tackle Justin Joseph.
St. Anthony’s High School is a private, Catholic, college preparatory school located in Melville, NY. Operated by the Franciscan Brothers, the school emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to others. With a tradition-rich athletic program and a commitment to the arts, St. Anthony’s fosters a well-rounded environment where students are encouraged to reach their full potential both in and out of the classroom.
How to Follow New York High School Football
For New York high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the nation, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the Empire State, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the New York high school football excitement across the state.
Ben Davis (IN) is looking to bounce back from its worst season in nearly a decade and on Monday decided who would be the man to lead the football program back on its feet.
According to a press release by Wayne Township School Board, Brett Cooper has been approved to become the next head football coach at Ben Davis. The Giants are perennially one of the top football programs in the Hoosier State, but fell to a disappointing 3-7 last fall.
“My family and I are excited about the opportunity to become the next head football coach at Ben Davis High School,” Cooper said in the press release. “The tradition that is Ben Davis brings forth a level of expectation that is unmatched throughout the state of Indiana. It is an honor to now be part of a long line of legendary coaches at BD, and I am confident we will continue to build that legacy. We can’t wait to meet the team and get to work.”
Ben Davis football turns the page.
Brett Cooper has been approved as the next head coach of the Giants—bringing a proven history of building winning programs, developing student-athletes, and honoring tradition.
The Giants last season started the season 1-6 before finishing 2-1 in the final three games. Ben Davis is expected to bring back talent in the defensive secondary, including 2027 cornerback prospects Keontay Toomer and Marcus Powe.
Cooper is coming off a 2025 season where he led Bloomington North to a 7-4 record and has also had head coaching stops at Perry Meridian (2020-2025) and Indian Creek (2017-2019), according to the release.
Last season was the first 3-7 season Ben Davis has had since 2018 and the Giants ended up finishing as the state’s No. 24 ranked team, according to the final Indiana 2025 High School Football Massey Rankings.
More about Ben Davis High School
Ben Davis High School, located in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a prominent public school known for its strong academics, competitive athletics, and active extracurricular programs. Offering a variety of AP and honors courses, the school prepares students for college and future careers. Ben Davis’s athletic teams are highly successful, often achieving state-level recognition. Emphasizing leadership, community involvement, and personal development, the school ensures students are well-rounded and ready for future challenges.
How to Follow Indiana High School Football
For Indiana high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the nation, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the Hoosier State, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the high school football excitement across the state of Indiana.
Waxahachie (TX) was one of the top Texas high school football programs from the 2025 season and have been on the search for a new head coach.
According to Dave Campbell’s Texas Football, the Indians search for head coach is expected to come to an end. Per Matt Stepp of DCTF, Waxahachie, pending board of directors approval, will promote defensive coordinator Lawrence Williams to the position of head football coach.
Williams replaces former Waxahachie head coach Shane Tolleson, who moved on to the same position at Denton Ryan.
BREAKING pending board approval tonight Waxahachie is expected to promote DC Lawrence Williams to HFC at Waxahachie HS #txhsfb@dctfhttps://t.co/jDVkLGi1ez
Williams takes over a Waxahachie program that finished 12-2 under Tolleson season, including pulling off a stunning 28-27 win over Duncanville during the regular season.
Tolleson was hired by Waxahachie away from Ryan ahead of the 2021 Texas high school football season. Since taking over, Tolleson has led the Indians to a 46-17 overall record.
Waxahachie High School, located in Waxahachie, Texas, is known for its strong academic and athletic programs. The school, part of the Waxahachie Independent School District, fosters a spirit of excellence both in the classroom and on the field. The Waxahachie Indians, the school’s athletic teams, are highly competitive in various sports, particularly football and basketball. The school’s vibrant community, spirited by its rich tradition, encourages student involvement and school pride.
How to Follow Texas High School Football
For Texas high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the nation, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the Lone Star State, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the high school football excitement across Texas.
Madison (Texas) football head coach Blaine Pederson resigned on Monday after nine seasons in charge of the Mavericks.
During his tenure, Pederson led Madison to a 52-52 record. The San Antonio program won nine games in back-to-back seasons in 2018 and 2019. The Mavericks compiled four winning seasons under Pederson, but none came in the last four years.
In 2025, the Mavericks went 3-8, losing all four of their out-of-district matchups. They finished as the No. 366 team in the Lone Star State, according to the Rivals Composite Rankings.
Defense was often an issue last season. They allowed an average of 35 points per game, a number that was surpassed by five teams throughout the year. The Mavericks won their final two games of the regular season, but fell 56-24 to Harlan in the first round of the Class 6A Division II state tournament.
Pederson came to Madison from San Antonio Johnson, one of the top programs in the area. According to DCTF’s Matt Stepp, Pederson “may be taking a job at a private school program.”
Texas HSFB jobs continue to open
The high school football offseason is well underway at this point, yet head coaching gigs continue to open. Madison is the latest.
In December, Legacy School of Sports Sciences announced that it hired Freddie Johnson as the school’s fourth head coach in program history. Johnson will not be on the sidelines for the Titans in 2026, however. As first reported by VYPE Houston, Johnson is now the associate director of scouting at Texas Tech. His X profile reflects just that.
Earlier this month, Southlake Carroll, one of the state’s top programs, promoted defensive coordinator Lee Munn to head coach. Munn has spent the last eight years on the Southlake Carroll coaching staff as the Dragons’ defensive coordinator.
For Texas high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the nation, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the Lone Star State, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the high school football excitement across the state of Texas.
Despite losing the College Football Playoff National Championship, Miami had an impressive 2025-26 season, cementing its place back among the best in the sport.
There’s plenty of reasons to believe that the Hurricanes will be able to ride their momentum into next season. A standout high school recruiting class is one of them.
It’s the fifth time in the last six cycles that the Canes have sat above the Gators and Seminoles in the team recruiting rankings. Cristobal joined ‘The Hard Count’ with On3’s J.D. PicKell and discussed the importance of in-state recruiting and how he and his staff deal with other programs negatively recruiting against the Hurricanes.
“In recruiting, you always want to win your state,” Cristobal said. “We provide very tangible proof of the direction of our program and what we’re doing. We don’t get into negative recruiting, but people always negative recruit us and that’s fine, no one should ever take that personally, let’s just let it play out. People have a lot of data, they have a sample size to compare how our program is doing versus the rest of our competitors in the state and the direction of our program as well.”
Miami is now 35-19 in four seasons under Cristobal and is now riding back-to-back double-digit-win campaigns. FSU is now 30-21 in the last four years of the Mike Norvell era, winning just seven games in the last two. Florida is 23-27 in that span and fired Billy Napier in the middle of last season.
Cristobal: ‘We’re not satisfied’
The Miami head coach remained stoic amidst his team’s run to the CFP National Championship. Focused on one win at a time, he nearly took his alma mater to the promised land.
Nearly. It didn’t happen, and that fuels Cristobal moving forward. He knows there’s another step to take and he feels that his mindset is shared by the rest of the program. That resonates with recruits.
“I think players and parents realize that not only is our program — we’re not satisfied. We were a participant in the national championship, we didn’t win it. We look at that dead on and say let’s go get better so we can put ourselves in a situation to win that game as well and win a conference and get better as a program,” Cristobal said.
“I think that hunger is felt, I don’t think over here it’s a sales pitch, it’s a way of life and a vocation. At the end of the day, unless I’m crazy, I think I’m the only head coach in Florida who actually played at the school he coaches at.”
Miami’s 2026 recruiting class is headlined by Five-Star Plus+ offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell, the No. 1 overall prospect in the Rivals Industry Ranking. He’s one of 20 blue-chip signees in the class.
Of those 20, half are from Florida. The Hurricanes signed four more in-state four-stars than Florida and five more than FSU.
“At Miami it’s very different. It’s a whole different level of meaning, a whole different level of purpose and intent. Live and die a Hurricane, man,” Cristobal said. “That means I’ll do anything and everything possible to make sure our players and our program continues to have success both on and off the field.”
Four-star prospect Joe Philon is currently on his official visit to UCLA, a source told Rivals.
The 6-foot-8 power forward out of Montverde Academy (FL) is considering the Bruins among his finalists, along with Ohio State, South Florida, UNLV, and Xavier.
Philon’s trip to see UCLA is his third official visit, as he’s also been to Ohio State and South Florida.
Philon, a native of Tampa, Florida, is the No. 53 overall player in the 2026 class, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking — the average of all three recruiting media companies (Rivals, ESPN, 247Sports). He’s also No. 7 ranked power forward and the No. 7 player in Florida.
Philon on UCLA
In a previous interview with Rivals, Joe Philon discussed the Bruins.
UCLA: “UCLA is not just a basketball school, it’s a basketball institution. The history is amazing but that is not the main reason for them making the list. Coach Cronin talked to me about my defensive potential and what they will do to help enhance that part of my game. I love that and the Big 10 is a very tough and competitive league. I think the physicalness of the league will force me to improve that part of my game.”
Scouting Report
Rivals National Recruiting Analyst Jamie Shaw has evaluated Philon on multiple occasions and shared the following thoughts on his game:
JoJo Philon has excellent length with a twitchy and fluid athletic disposition. He is capable of guarding all five positions at this level, sliding his feet, opening his hips, and guarding down a lineup. He is going to have to find how he can become an offensive weapon. In this setting they use him as the primary initiator, and that’s just not his game at this point. Streamlining things is next for him, there is some very intriguing production in there, especially with his ability to affect the game on the defensive end.
A lengthy and fluid player. His highest presence was on the defensive end here, showing an ability to switch and slide. Figuring out his offensive game are the next steps, but he shows flashes of touch and handle.
Pinellas Park (Fla.) has been in the search for a new head football coach this off-season and on Monday announced who that will be.
Former Duke standout offensive lineman Takoby Cofieldannounced on social media that he has been named the new head football coach of the Patriots. Cofield played for the Blue Devils from 2011-14 and started three full seasons while at Duke.
“Patriot nation I’m home! Excited to be the new HC,” Cofield said in his statement on social media.
Cofield steps in for Max Smith, who was the program’s head coach from 2022-25 and won 24 games during that time.
When it comes to being a decorated Duke offensive lineman, Cofield saw action right out of the gates as a freshman and started three full seasons in Durham, North Carolina. From 2011-14, Cofield appeared in 51 games and started in 42 consecutive contests, and was named a third team All-ACC selection his senior campaign.
Now Cofield is tasked with taking on a Pinellas Park program that’s looking to get themselves back in the conversation as one of Pinellas County’s top high school football teams. The last time the Patriots posted double-digit victories was back in 2018 under the watch of then-head coach Kenny Crawford.
For Florida high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the Sunshine State, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the state, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the Florida high school football excitement across the state.
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Anderson Diaz, one of the top point guards in the 2027 class, took an unofficial visit to Auburn on Saturday, February 7th to watch the Tigers play Alabama, he told Rivals.
The 6-foot-1 junior out of Overtime Elite (GA) holds offers from both Auburn and Alabama. He’s also received scholarships from St. John’s, Cincinnati, Seton Hall, Villanova, Illinois, UCLA, Louisville, Ole Miss, Providence, Syracuse, Arkansas, Miami, Maryland, Florida State, and others.
Diaz, originally from the Bronx, New York, is ranked as the No. 24 overall player in the 2027 class, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking.
Playing with the Cold Hearts in the Overtime Elite league, Diaz averaged 17.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, 7.0 assists, and 1.3 steals per game during the regular season.
Diaz on Auburn
In a previous interview with Rivals, Anderson Diaz discussed the Tigers.
“Tahaad (Pettiford) is my guy. I really started watching them once Sharife (Cooper) was around. I just like the way they used Sharife, and Tahaad, as well, and then Sharife and Tahaad are players that I like to watch.”
What he’s looking for in a school
In that same previous interview with Rivals, Diaz discussed what he wants in his future college.
“I want to go to a school that’s going to provide me the right resources to get me to where I got to go. A school that’s gonna keep the success flowing, and that needs me to win. I will choose the school that’s just the perfect fit for me. That’s that I just feel like I’m at home. That’s what I’m looking for.”
More on Diaz
”I’m a gritty guard plays both ends of the ball,” Diaz told Rivals previously. “A point guard who can get wherever I want, and I can shoot the ball well. I would say I’ve developed every aspect of my game over the summer, because I got stronger, my shot got way better, and my handle got tighter. I’m just getting better every day and I work on everything every day.
“I watch a lot of Kyrie Irving. because of the way he gets to the basket. Just his way with the basketball. I watch De’Angelo Russell and Mike Conley, too. How Conley uses both hands, left and right and how smooth Russell is.”
UK, Russia, Germany, and China have played a pivotal role in driving Sri Lanka’s impressive tourism growth, with the country welcoming over eighty thousand visitors in February 2026. This surge is a direct result of targeted marketing campaigns, enhanced air connectivity, and the island’s increasing appeal as a diverse destination offering everything from rich cultural experiences to stunning natural landscapes. The strong presence of travelers from these key markets—India remains Sri Lanka’s top source—underscores the growing global recognition of Sri Lanka as a top-tier destination. With improvements in infrastructure, strategic promotions, and the continued appeal of Sri Lanka’s pristine beaches, ancient temples, and wildlife, these nations’ contributions to the growth of tourism are a significant factor in the island’s recovery and success in 2026.
Sri Lanka Sees Impressive Growth in February 2026 Tourism with Over 80,000 Visitors, Led by India, the UK, and Russia
Sri Lanka has reported a significant surge in tourism for February 2026, welcoming a total of 80,776 visitors, according to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA). This marks a notable increase compared to the same period in the previous year, highlighting a strong rebound in the nation’s tourism sector.
India remains the largest source market for tourists, with 12,439 arrivals from the country, making up 15% of the total visitors for the month. The United Kingdom closely follows with 9,283 visitors, while Russia contributes 6,946 tourists. Germany and China also showed a solid presence in February, with 5,401 and 5,037 visitors, respectively, underscoring Sri Lanka’s continued appeal across key global markets.
The number of tourists visiting Sri Lanka in February 2026 has seen a considerable rise compared to the previous year. In February 2025, Sri Lanka recorded just 240,217 visitors, meaning the total number of arrivals for the current year has surged significantly. This uptick reflects the island’s growing reputation as a sought-after destination for travelers across the globe.
Sri Lanka’s tourism performance for February 2026, which totals 358,103 visitors for the year so far, demonstrates the country’s remarkable recovery and appeal. As India continues to be the dominant source market with 65,500 visitors, followed by the UK with 38,823 and Russia with 34,080, it is clear that Sri Lanka is firmly positioned as a key player in the global tourism landscape. The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority’s latest data emphasizes the nation’s ongoing growth and the increasing interest in its diverse attractions.
A Look at Key Source Markets and Growth Drivers
India has long been Sri Lanka’s top source of international visitors, and the February 2026 figures reflect this strong relationship. With over 12,000 arrivals from India, Sri Lanka continues to be a favored destination for Indian tourists, drawn by proximity, cultural ties, and the island’s unique blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks. This consistent influx from India is likely to remain a key driver of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, especially as travel trends continue to favor regional destinations.
The United Kingdom and Russia are also critical to Sri Lanka’s tourism success. The UK, with over 9,000 arrivals in February 2026, maintains its position as a top European market. British visitors are typically attracted to Sri Lanka’s rich cultural experiences, tropical beaches, and adventure tourism. Meanwhile, Russia, contributing 6,946 tourists, continues to play a pivotal role in bolstering the island’s international tourism profile, particularly in the wake of shifting travel patterns and geopolitical changes. Russian tourists are often drawn to Sri Lanka’s affordability and wide range of activities, from wildlife safaris to beach vacations.
Other key markets include Germany and China, both of which show steady interest in Sri Lanka’s offerings. With 5,401 and 5,037 visitors, respectively, these nations contribute significantly to the tourism sector’s growth, indicating that Sri Lanka’s appeal is expanding beyond traditional markets.
Tourism Recovery and Prospects for the Future
Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has made remarkable strides in recovery, rebounding from the challenges faced in previous years. The latest data shows that the country has not only recovered but is on track to surpass previous tourism benchmarks. This growth is a testament to the efforts of the Sri Lankan government and the private sector to improve infrastructure, promote Sri Lanka’s diverse attractions, and enhance the overall visitor experience.
With its stunning beaches, ancient temples, tea plantations, and wildlife reserves, Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. The government’s continued investment in tourism infrastructure, along with the promotion of sustainable and responsible tourism practices, is expected to attract even more international visitors in the coming years.
As Sri Lanka’s tourism industry continues to expand, there is also a growing emphasis on targeting emerging markets. The rise of the middle class in countries like India and China, combined with the increasing demand for experiential travel, positions Sri Lanka well to capture a larger share of global tourism in the future.
Key Developments in Sri Lanka’s Tourism Strategy
The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has been proactive in implementing strategies that will support the long-term growth of the industry. This includes initiatives aimed at improving air connectivity, enhancing visitor services, and promoting the island’s unique cultural and natural heritage.
One of the standout initiatives is the focus on sustainability and responsible tourism. Sri Lanka is working to ensure that its tourism sector grows in a way that benefits local communities and preserves the environment. By encouraging eco-friendly practices and supporting the development of sustainable tourism products, Sri Lanka is positioning itself as a destination for conscious travelers who value both culture and conservation.
Furthermore, the country’s strategic marketing efforts are paying off. The SLTDA’s successful campaigns in key markets, such as India and the UK, have resulted in increased awareness of Sri Lanka as a top-tier travel destination. Collaborative partnerships with international tour operators and airlines are also helping to boost Sri Lanka’s visibility and attract more visitors.
UK, Russia, Germany, and China have significantly contributed to Sri Lanka’s tourism boom, driving over eighty thousand visitors in February 2026. This surge reflects the country’s growing appeal, bolstered by strategic marketing and enhanced connectivity.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Growth in a Competitive Market
As Sri Lanka looks to maintain its momentum, the challenge will be to continue diversifying its tourism offerings while ensuring that growth remains sustainable. The country’s rich cultural heritage, lush landscapes, and vibrant ecosystems provide a strong foundation for this growth, but ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure, promote off-the-beaten-path destinations, and improve visitor experiences will be essential to sustaining long-term success.
The February 2026 tourism figures are a positive indicator of the country’s ability to adapt and thrive in an increasingly competitive global tourism market. As Sri Lanka continues to welcome more international visitors, its appeal as a diverse, sustainable, and culturally rich destination will undoubtedly attract even more tourists in the years to come.
There is a specific kind of magic that settles over Sri Lanka during the first quarter of the year. The monsoon rains have largely retreated, leaving behind a lush, emerald landscape that glows under a soft tropical sun. It is a time when the golden beaches of the south and the misty highlands of the center become a sanctuary for travelers from across the globe. According to the latest figures released by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), this natural charm is translating into significant economic momentum.
As of February 9, 2026, the island has already welcomed a staggering 80,776 tourists. This early-month surge suggests that the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” remains a priority on the global travel bucket list, maintaining a steady pulse of activity across its international airports and coastal resorts.
A Global Melting Pot of Travelers
The diversity of those walking through the arrivals terminal at Bandaranaike International Airport reflects a world that is once again deeply in love with Sri Lankan hospitality. Leading the charge is India, a neighbor that continues to be the bedrock of the local tourism industry. In the first nine days of February alone, 12,439 tourists from India arrived on the island, accounting for a substantial 15.0% of the total market share. The cultural proximity, short flight times, and the spiritual allure of the Ramayana Trail continue to make Sri Lanka a “home away from home” for Indian visitors.
However, the appeal of the island stretches far beyond the subcontinent. The United Kingdom has secured its position as the second-largest source market this month, with 9,283 persons making the journey from the British Isles. Whether they are seeking the colonial nostalgia of Nuwara Eliya or the world-class surf breaks of the southern coast, UK travelers remain a vital pillar of the industry.
European interest remains robust across the board. Despite the logistical complexities of international travel in the current global climate, Russia contributed 6,946 visitors, while Germany followed closely with 5,401 arrivals. Interestingly, the East is also showing signs of renewed vigor; 5,037 Chinese nationals visited the country during this period, signaling a steady recovery in the East Asian market that many local hoteliers have been eagerly anticipating.
Putting the Numbers into Perspective
To understand the trajectory of Sri Lanka’s tourism recovery, one must look at the broader context of the year so far. With the addition of these early February figures, the total number of international visitors for 2026 has climbed to an impressive 358,103.
When we break down the cumulative year-to-date data, the dominance of certain markets becomes even clearer:
India: 65,500 total arrivals.
United Kingdom: 38,823 total arrivals.
Russia: 34,080 total arrivals.
These figures represent more than just statistics; they represent thousands of stories—families exploring the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, backpackers trekking through the tea plantations of Ella, and luxury travelers enjoying the boutiques of Colombo.
However, the industry is also mindful of the benchmarks set in the previous year. In February 2025, Sri Lanka saw a total of 240,217 tourists. While the current figure of 80,776 represents only the first third of the month, the industry is working tirelessly to match or exceed the high-water marks of the past. The comparison serves as a reminder of the island’s capacity to host massive volumes of visitors while maintaining the quality of service that has earned it numerous international accolades.
More Than Just Beaches
While the SLTDA data focuses on the numbers, the surrounding atmosphere in the country suggests a nation in the midst of a broader cultural and logistical transformation. While tourists soak up the sun, the country is navigating internal reforms and international collaborations.
For instance, the recent appointment of Shannon Cowlin as the new Country Director for the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Sri Lanka highlights a continued focus on infrastructure and economic stability—factors that indirectly influence the safety and ease of travel for every visitor. Furthermore, the arrival of a delegation to facilitate the return of the Sacred Devnimori Relics from India underscores the deep-rooted religious tourism ties that draw thousands of pilgrims to the island annually.
The Road Ahead
As the month progresses, the focus remains on ensuring that the influx of visitors translates into sustainable growth for local communities. From the tuk-tuk drivers in Galle to the boutique villa owners in Kandy, the lifeblood of the economy is flowing once again.
The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority continues to monitor these trends closely, ensuring that the infrastructure—from anti-smuggling security technology to regulated school transport services during the busy season—keeps pace with the growing demand.
Sri Lanka’s story in 2026 is one of resilience and invitation. It is a narrative that says the doors are open, the tea is warm, and the landscapes are waiting. With over 80,000 visitors already convinced in just nine days, the “So Sri Lanka” brand is proving that it doesn’t just attract tourists—it creates lifelong fans of the island.
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![STOCK | Footballs are displayed at Bolles School football practice on July 29, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida. [Clayton Freeman/Florida Times-Union]](https://media.zenfs.com/en/on3_recruiting_articles_521/047e2b54c9c3d2693eabe85e70ae8bda)
Brazil is entering 2026 as one of the fastest-rising travel destinations in the world, building on a record-breaking tourism performance last year and a packed calendar of cultural events, expanded air routes, and renewed international […]
After a sharp drop in international tourism last year, Argentina is repositioning itself as a long-haul, experience-led destination in 2026, with ambitious visitor targets, expanded air connectivity and a renewed focus on higher-spending markets. Data […] 
