IRONMAN has announced a new triathlon event in Portugal, with the launch of the IRONMAN 70.3 Vilamoura-Algarve set for April 3, 2027. The event will officially kick-start the 2027 European race season, with general registration for next year’s event opening on July 30, 2026.
Located on Portugal’s southern coast, Vilamoura is a resort destination known for its coastal scenery, sports infrastructure, and marina. The region previously hosted events such as the Portugal Masters, European Triathlon Cup, and the Triatlo Longo de Vilamoura.
The event joins Portugal’s existing race portfolio alongside IRONMAN 70.3 Cascais and the full-distance IRONMAN Portugal-Cascais. According to the event company, last year’s Cascais events hosted nearly 5,000 athletes, with a 35% growth in Portuguese participants.
Thomas Veje Olsen, Managing Director of IRONMAN Europe, Middle East and Africa said “Portugal is fast becoming a thriving triathlon destination, thanks to the popularity of IRONMAN Cascais and IRONAN 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.
“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.”
Telmo Pinto, Mayor of the Municipality of Loulé added “We are delighted to welcome the IRONMAN brand to the Municipality of Loulé for the very first time. As one of the world’s most prestigious international sporting events, its arrival marks a significant milestone for our municipality and reflects the quality of our destination, the excellence of our infrastructure, and the outstanding capabilities of our partners.
“Beyond its sporting significance, IRONMAN represents a strategic opportunity due to the substantial economic impact it generates across the hospitality, restaurant, retail, and service sectors, while further strengthening the international profile of Loulé and Vilamoura as premier destinations for tourism and major events. We are immensely proud to welcome athletes and their teams from around the world and are confident that this will be the first of many successful editions to be held in our municipality.”
The course will feature a 1.9km one-loop swim starting at Vilamoura Marina Beach, followed by a 90km one-loop bike course through the Algarve countryside. The race concludes with a two-loop 21km run course passing the marina, Quarteira Beach, and the local promenade.
