IRONMAN®, the global leader in long-distance triathlon, announced today that the vibrant city of San Salvador, El Salvador will host the newest addition to the IRONMAN® 70.3® triathlon circuit. The inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 San Salvador triathlon is set to take place on Sunday, February 22, 2026. General registration is expected to open in the coming weeks at www.ironman.com/races/im703-san-salvador.
Set against the stunning scenery of El Salvador’s capital city and the Boquerón Volcano Valley, athletes will not only be treated to a world-class event but also experience a country filled with cultural richness, stunning natural beauty, and the unmatched warmth of its people.
“We are eager to showcase the beauty of El Salvador through IRONMAN 70.3 racing and are proud to partner with LATAMSPORTS to bring this new event to this region of the World,” said Joanna Jordan, Vice President – Managing Director of Latin America for The IRONMAN Group. “San Salvador is a truly unique Central American destination and the perfect venue to host a world-class race experience. This early season race offers an incredible opportunity for athletes from around the world to experience El Salvador through our sport.”
The 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 San Salvador triathlon will offer athletes an exciting and scenic course that highlights the diverse beauty of Central America. The race begins with a 1.9 km (1.2-mile) swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ilopango, set in a volcanic crater just outside the capital city. After exiting the swim, athletes will take on a 90 km (56-mile) bike ride along the Pan-American Highway, featuring two loops through lush countryside and mountain vistas, before entering the city of San Salvador for the final leg. The 21.1 km (13.1 mile) run course will wind through the historic heart of the capital, blending urban vibrance with iconic landmarks and energetic spectators cheering athletes toward the finish line at Plaza Gerardo Barrios.
Known as the Land of Hosts, El Salvador is a welcoming community sitting over 600 meters (2,100 feet) above sea level. From coastlines and volcanoes to colonial towns and modern cityscapes, this event offers a race experience like no other. Athletes and their supporters will enjoy a rich mix of tradition, adventure, and hospitality in a destination that’s rapidly emerging on the world’s endurance sports stage.
This event marks a major milestone in the nation’s growing commitment to sports tourism and economic development. As the first IRONMAN 70.3 race in the country, it stands as a testament to El Salvador’s transformation and its embrace of global sporting excellence.
The 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 San Salvador triathlon will offer qualifying slots to the 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship race in Nice, France.
For more information on the IRONMAN 70.3 San Salvador triathlon, visit www.ironman.com/races/im703-san-salvador. Athlete inquiries can be directed to mfabara@andesportstri.com.
For more information on the IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 brands and global event series, visit www.ironman.com.