SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 will mark the long-awaited return of long-distance triathlon to the province of Québec on 28 June 2026, after a three-year hiatus.
Thanks to an exclusive partnership with the prestigious DATEV Challenge Roth – the landmark event on the international triathlon circuit held annually in Germany – Québec City will host its first-ever long distance race, right in the heart of downtown.
With this strategic alliance with DATEV Challenge Roth and the launch of its long distance in 2026, SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 is setting a new benchmark as the most prestigious 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 Roth. An unprecedented opportunity for endurance sport enthusiasts.
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 – a milestone moment for the global triathlon community.
“We are thrilled to see Challenge Family bring long-distance triathlon to the doorstep of North American athletes with SAIL Challenge Québec,” stated 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.”
“Bringing long distance triathlon back to Québec alongside a partner as iconic as Challenge Roth is a dream come true,” said Dominique Piché, Executive Producer of the event. “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.”
“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,” said Jort Vlam, CEO of Challenge Family. “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.”
Registration for 2026 opens tomorrow: 3.8 km swim, 180 km bike, 42.2 km run
Athletes eager to be part of this historic first edition can register as of 10:00am tomorrow, 17 June 2025, for the event on 28 June 2026. They will have a full year to prepare for one of the greatest challenges in endurance sports: a 3.8 km swim in the Bassin Louise, 180 km bike ride on the Dufferin-Montmorency Highway, and a full 42.2 km marathon run along the Saint-Charles River, through the Old Port and finishing in the heart of the city.
For further information and entries, click here.
Upcoming Events
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.
Partner Quotes
“The Capitale-Nationale region continues to affirm its status as a leading global sports destination. Hosting a long distance triathlon of this magnitude proves our ability to stand among the world’s top host cities. Through sport, our region shines, unites communities, and attracts top talent from here and abroad.”
— Jonatan Julien, Minister Responsible for the Capitale-Nationale Region
“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. It’s excellent news for our residents, our athletes, and the broader sports community.”
— Bruno Marchand, Mayor of Québec City
“Offering a spectacular venue like the Port of Québec Oasis for a high profile event such as SAIL Challenge Québec is a tremendous source of pride. It reflects our global outlook and our commitment to promoting our region. Welcoming world-class athletes in such a unique setting showcases the full potential of Québec as a premier sport and maritime destination.”
— Olga Farman, President and CEO, Port of Québec
“For nearly 50 years, SAIL has been inspiring Quebecers and Canadians to push their limits and fully embrace their passion for the outdoors. We are extremely proud to be part of this world-class triathlon. With the addition of the long distance format, SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 becomes a powerful symbol of commitment, perseverance, and excellence for our community and for the City of Québec.”
— Isabelle Lemay, President and CEO, SAIL
“We’ve been proud partners of Challenge Québec since the beginning. Right from its first edition, the event established itself as a key moment in Québec’s triathlon calendar. We are thrilled to continue this incredible journey.”
— Jean-François Leclair, Marketing Director, Argon 18
“The arrival of a Challenge Family long distance race in Québec is great news for our military athletes. It’s a chance to push our limits, compete with the best, and showcase the Canadian Armed Forces. We’re proud to be part of this journey from day one.”
— Pierre-Vincent Daigle, representative of the Canadian Armed Forces triathlon team