IRONMAN and Chilean event organiser World Centric Group have announced that the city of Puerto Varas in Chile, will be the newest host location of an IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon. The IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Varas triathlon will make its debut on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
“We are thrilled to continue expanding the IRONMAN brand throughout Chile, said Catalina Escudero, Communications Director for World Centric Group, which owns and operates the new event.
“Our goal is to keep setting trends with this event and remain committed to delivering an excellent experience for our athletes – innovating with diverse and engaging activities, while also creating a sustainable event that lives up to the standards and spirit of the city of Puerto Varas.”
The 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Varas triathlon will offer athletes an experience racing through the picturesque region of southern Chile. Athletes will begin their race with a 1.9 km (1.2-mile) swim in the clear waters of Lake Llanquihue, with views of the Osorno Volcano in the distance.
Once out of the water, athletes will take on the 90 km (56-mile) bike course, which features an out-and-back route along the scenic roads that circle the lake. The course is mostly flat, with a few rolling hills, offering athletes a balance of fast-paced riding and views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
After transitioning to the run, athletes will complete a 13.1-mile (21 km) run course, which follows a three-lap throughout the city and Puerto Varas’ Costanera, as they pass through lush forests and fields.
Located in the heart of the Chilean Lake District, Puerto Varas, and this region of Chile is known for its natural beauty, with lakes, views of the snow-capped volcanoes, and forests. Puerto Varas itself is a town with a mix of German heritage and a strong connection to the outdoors.
The announcement of the new IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Varas also represents an opportunity for the city’s economic and sentimental recovery following a severe weather event that took place in May this year.
A powerful tornado significantly impacted local infrastructure – damaging more than 250 homes and impacting the community and its residents.
According to IRONMAN… ‘The staging of the new IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Varas in 2026 becomes even more meaningful to its host community, serving as a beacon to uplift community spirit and stimulate the local economy through tourism, hotel occupancy, and commerce.’
IRONMAN added… ‘The event will become a symbol of resilience and hope, reinforcing IRONMAN’s commitment to its host communities and demonstrating how sport can be a driving force for sustainable development and reconstruction.’
The 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Varas triathlon will offer qualifying slots to the 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship taking place in Nice, France.
www.ironman.com
www.worldcentric.group
