Ironman launch new 2027 European 70.3 triathlon race in Portugal

Ironman has today announced that a new 70.3 triathlon will be added to the European series. The new race will be based in Portugal and will take place on 3rd April 2027, officially kicking off the European race season.

The race will be based in Vilamoura-Algarvis, a resort destination in Portugal’s Algarve region which is located on the country’s south coast and the announcement today athletes plenty of time to find a training plan and get ready for 2027. . The region is renowned for its long stretches of golden sandy coastline, vibrant dining and nightlife, world-class marina, and outdoor sporting landscape. In recent years, Vilamoura has invested significantly in establishing itself as a premier sporting destination for triathlon, golf, sailing and cycling, thanks to its reliable year-round climate, well-developed tourism infrastructure and stunning coastal scenery. 

Famous for sports

The region is well experienced in hosting large scale sporting events, having hosted the Portugal Masters from 2007 to 2022, and welcoming prestigious international events such as the Youth Sailing World Championships and ILCA Championships. The Algarve also has a strong track record of hosting triathlon events, including the Triatlo Longo de Vilamoura (2015–2019), the Algarve Tri Run (2018–2019), the Portuguese National Long-Distance Triathlon Championships and, most recently, the European Triathlon Cup. 

Portugal first hosted an Ironman-branded event back in 2017 with Ironman 70.3 Cascais. In 2022, a full-distance Ironman event joined Ironman 70.3 Cascais, making for an epic festival weekend of swim, bike, run on Portugal’s Atlantic coastline. Last year’s events welcomed nearly 5,000 athletes and saw a 35% growth in Portuguese athletes, underscoring the growing demand for racing opportunities in Portugal.  

Ironman Europe, Middle East and Africa Managing Director, Thomas Veje Olsen said: “Portugal is fast becoming a thriving triathlon destination, thanks to the popularity of Ironman Cascais and Ironman 70.3 Cascais. We are excited to now have two outstanding Portuguese events book-ending the European Ironman season, giving athletes even more opportunities to race year-round. 

Veje Olsen continued: “Vilamoura is an exceptional location to host an event. Beyond its stunning scenery and ideal climate it’s also a place that we believe our athletes will love visiting, thanks to its choice of excellent hotels, easy transport links and plenty of activities for the whole family to get involved with. We can’t wait for athletes to experience the course and look forward to welcoming them to Vilamoura in 2027 for what promises to be an unforgettable start to the European racing season.” 

Course detail

The Roka swim course
The one-loop 1.9 km (1.2 mile) swim starts at Vilamoura Marina Beach. Athletes will swim in the protected waters of the harbour, with the water temperature expected to be around 16 and 18 degrees Celsius (60.8 and 64.4 degrees Fahrenheit). 

The Rouvy bike course
The 90 km one-loop bike course is a journey through the heart of the Algarve. Combining scenic roads, picturesque countryside and a vibrant cycling culture, the route delivers a rewarding challenge alongside unforgettable views. With passionate local communities cheering athletes every step of the way, competitors can look forward to a truly special race-day experience.  

The Hoka run course
Athletes will finish their day with a flat two-loop 21km run course, which takes them along the Marina, past Quarteira Beach, and onto the Promenade. Expect fast run times and high energy from spectators along the course.  

General registration for Ironman 70.3 Vilamoura-Algarve will open on July 30.