Global leader in triathlon, IRONMAN has today announced that a new IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon will be added to the European series in the sunny destination of Vilamoura, Portugal. IRONMAN 70.3 Vilamoura-Algarve will take place on April 3 2027 officially kicking off the European race season, with general registration opening on July 30 2027.
Vilamoura is a resort destination in Portugal’s Algarve region, located on the country’s south coast. The region is renowned for its long stretches of golden sandy coastline, vibrant dining and nightlife, world-class marina, and outdoor sporting landscape. In recent years, Vilamoura has invested significantly in establishing itself as a premier sporting destination for triathlon, golf, sailing and cycling, thanks to its reliable year-round climate, well-developed tourism infrastructure and stunning coastal scenery.
The region is well experienced in hosting large scale sporting events, having hosted the Portugal Masters from 2007 to 2022, and welcoming prestigious international events such as the Youth Sailing World Championships and ILCA Championships. The Algarve also has a strong track record of hosting triathlon events, including the Triatlo Longo de Vilamoura (2015–2019), the Algarve Tri Run (2018–2019), the Portuguese National Long-Distance Triathlon Championships and, most recently, the European Triathlon Cup.
Vilamoura combines luxury tourism with the Algarve's rich maritime heritage, where a longstanding connection to the Atlantic is reflected in its world-class marina, sailing traditions and vibrant coastal lifestyle. Easily accessible, the destination is located just over 15 km from Faro Airport and is well served by reliable public transport, while offering a wide range of hotels and accommodation options to suit athletes and their supporters. Home to one of Portugal's largest marinas, Vilamoura also boasts an abundance of restaurants, beaches, golf courses and family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal destination for spectators to enjoy while cheering on athletes.
Portugal first hosted an IRONNAN-branded event back in 2017 with IRONMAN 70.3 Cascais. The event quickly became one of Europe’s most popular races, regularly selling out and attracting international and local athletes alike. In 2022, a full-distance IRONMAN event joined IRONMAN 70.3 Cascais, making for an epic festival weekend of swim, bike, run on Portugal’s Atlantic coastline. Last year’s events welcomed nearly 5,000 athletes and saw a 35% growth in Portuguese athletes, underscoring the growing demand for racing opportunities in Portugal.
IRONMAN Europe, Middle East and Africa Managing Director, Thomas Veje Olsen 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.
Veje Olsen continued: “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 commented: "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.
He added: “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."
Course Description:
ROKA SWIM COURSE
The one-loop 1.9 km (1.2 mile) swim starts at?Vilamoura?Marina Beach. Athletes will swim in the protected waters of the harbour, with the water temperature expected to be around 16?and 18?degrees Celsius (60.8?and 64.4?degrees Fahrenheit).
ROUVY BIKE COURSE
The 90 km one-loop bike course is more than just a bike course, it’s a journey through the heart of the Algarve. Combining scenic roads, picturesque countryside and a vibrant cycling culture, the route delivers a rewarding challenge alongside unforgettable views. With passionate local communities cheering athletes every step of the way, competitors can look forward to a truly special race-day experience.
HOKA RUN COURSE
Athletes will finish their day with a flat two-loop 21km run course, which takes them along the Marina, past Quarteira Beach, and onto the Promenade. Expect fast run times and high energy from spectators along the course.
All maps are subject to change.