SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 will mark the return of long-distance triathlon to the province of Québec, Ontario, on June 28, 2026.
Thanks to an exclusive partnership with DATEV Challenge Roth – the ‘world’s largest long distance triathlon’ held annually in Germany – Québec City will host its first-ever long distance race in the heart of downtown.
With this strategic alliance with DATEV Challenge Roth and the launch of its long distance race offering in 2026, Challenge Québec is aiming to set a new benchmark as the most prestigious triathlon event in Canada.
Known for drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators and reaching full capacity within seconds each year, DATEV Challenge Roth is offering an exclusive benefit to the first 200 registrants of the Québec long distance event: a guaranteed spot at the 2027 edition of Challenge Roth.
The partnership was officially announced in the presence of Bruno Marchand, Mayor of Québec City; Félix Walchshöfer, CEO of DATEV Challenge Roth; Dominique Piché, Executive Producer of SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18; and Jort Vlam, CEO of Challenge Family.
“We are thrilled to see Challenge Family bring long-distance triathlon to the doorstep of North American athletes with SAIL Challenge Québec,” said Felix Walchshöfer.
“As the birthplace of triathlon with participants from over 100 nations, we aim to build a bridge between this exciting new race and our legendary event in Roth — which is why we’re offering 200 exclusive slots to Québec athletes.
“We can’t wait to welcome you to the Roth start line, cheered on by over 300,000 fans and supported by 7,500 volunteers.”
Dominique Piché, Executive Producer of Challenge Québec said “Bringing long distance triathlon back to Québec alongside a partner as iconic as Challenge Roth is a dream come true.
“SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 is entering a new phase, with a clear ambition: to deliver an experience on par with the world’s greatest races. It’s a significant step forward for our community, our city, and for all endurance sport enthusiasts.”
Jort Vlam, CEO of Challenge Family, added “The inaugural SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 set a new standard for triathlon in Canada, making history with its iconic race through the heart of Québec City.
“Building on that success to bring the ultimate distance in collaboration with DATEV Challenge Roth, the event where Challenge Family began, is a unique opportunity for the Canadian triathlon community.
“Thanks to Felix and his team, athletes crossing the red carpet in Québec now begin their road to Roth. Challenge Family looks forward to working with the city of Québec and Dominique to welcome athletes not just from North America, but from all over the world, to compete in this unrivalled setting.”
With registration for the new long distance Challenge Québec, athletes keen to take on a 3.8km swim, 180km bike, 42.2km run will have a full year to prepare.
The 2026 long distance event will feature a 3.8km swim in the Bassin Louise, 180km bike ride on the Dufferin-Montmorency Highway, and a 42.2km marathon run along the Saint-Charles River, through the Old Port and finishing in the heart of the city.
2025 event offering
The second edition of SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 will take place from June 27 to 29, 2025, at Espace Quatre Cents. Athletes will compete in the Sprint (C25), Olympic (A51), and Middle Distance (P113) events.
(The 226 km long distance race will officially be added to the event programme as of the 2026 edition, scheduled from June 26 to 28.)
“Hosting a long distance triathlon of this scale in Québec, in partnership with such a prestigious organization as DATEV Challenge Roth, marks a new chapter in our ambition to showcase our city on the international stage,” said Bruno Marchand, Mayor of Québec City.
“It’s excellent news for our residents, our athletes, and the broader sports community.”
