2025 IRONMAN triathlon expects to attract nearly 3,000 athletes

The 2025 IRONMAN 70.3 Viet Nam will return to Da Nang from May 9 – 11 for 10th anniversary. Photo: PHI NONG

IRONMAN 70.3 Viet Nam is one of the most anticipated international sporting events this year. Since its first edition in 2015 with 1,012 athletes participating, the sporting event has seen a remarkable growth in scale, with 2,800 athletes competing in 2024.

This significant increase is reflected not only in the numbers but also in the growing appeal of the competition, the rising popularity of triathlon which consists of swimming, cycling, and running, and the development of a passionate and enthusiastic community.

Moreover, this strong growth shows that Viet Nam is gradually affirming itself as a leading destination for endurance sporting events, attracting athletes of all levels from all over the world. The success can be attributed to the ability to consistently draw thousands of athletes, spectators, and support staff. This influx of resources helps nurture and promote the vibrant tourism ecosystem in Da Nang. Over the past decade, the event has contributed more than US$ 55 million to the local economy, positioning itself as a vital driving force for Viet Nam’s sports tourism and Da Nang’s economic growth.

This year’s theme ‘A Decade of Triumph – Where Every Finish Line is a New Beginning’ marks ten years of the sport’s growth, inspiring future athletes and highlighting Viet Nam as a premier endurance sports destination.

The event is jointly organised by Sunrise Events Viet Nam under the direction of the Da Nang People’s Committee and the support of the Department of Culture and Sports, and other relevant agencies.

IRONMAN 70.3 Da Nang is expected to attract nearly 3,000 athletes from more than 52 countries around the world. It will combine a 1.9km swim, 90km of cycling, and a run of 21km. 30 outstanding athletes will win qualifying slots for the 2025 VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Marbella, Spain.

In addition, as a true multi-sport festival, the competition will include other sporting events such as SUNRISE SPRINT Viet Nam – a short-distance triathlon with 750m swim, 20km bike ride and 5km run. This event is designed especially for new participants, offering them an opportunity to test their abilities or to prepare for more demanding distances.

Moreover, the IRONKIDS Viet Nam races will also return, incorporating aquathlon and triathlon events for children aged five to fifteen years.

The Newborns Viet Nam Run Out Charity Fun Run will be held to raise awareness and funds for newborns requiring critical medical assistance.

Mr. Trinh Bang, co-founder of Sunrise Events Viet Nam, remarked “A decade ago, we brought IRONMAN to Viet Nam with the belief that endurance sports could unlock untapped potential, not just for athletes but for the nation itself. Looking back on the past, we recognise the tenacity, ambition, and continuous growth of IRONMAN as a parallel to Viet Nam’s development journey. This competition returns to Da Nang on a rspecial occasion, promising to be exciting and dynamic, while providing athletes with many rewarding experiences. We hope that this event will further enhance Da Nang’s reputation as a premier destination for international sporting competitions”.

According to Nguyen Trong Thao, Deputy Director of the Da Nang Department of Culture and Sports, the IRONMAN event will be the city’s second international sporting event in 2025, following the successful Da Nang International Marathon. The partnership between the city and the IRONMAN 70.3 Da Nang is significant in promoting tourism and enhancing the city’s image. This event helps position Da Nang as a leading destination for sports tourism on the international arena.

Additionally, it brings economic benefits to local service, culinary, and accommodation industries. The noticeable increase in participating athletes, particularly among Vietnamese competitors, highlights the event’s far-reaching influence. Currently, the organising committee is actively preparing for this year’s competition. The city is committed to providing the best possible conditions and is ready to support the organisation of international-class sporting events, further enhancing Da Nang’s reputation and showcasing its beauty and dynamism to international friends.

DA NANG Today