On July 12, 2026 , Versailles will make triathlon history by hosting its first official IRONMAN 70.3 event, nicknamed "The Royal Race." In a setting unlike any other in the world, at the foot of the famous Palace of Versailles, this event promises an exceptional sporting experience, blending performance, endurance, and heritage.
This new race marks a major step for triathlon in France and is already shaping up to be one of the must-attend events on the international calendar.
A legendary format: the IRONMAN 70.3
The IRONMAN 70.3, also called Half Ironman , represents 113 km of effort , divided into three disciplines:
-
🏊 1.9 km swim
-
🚴 90 km cycling
-
🏃 21.1 km run
A demanding, yet accessible format that attracts thousands of amateur and elite triathletes from all over the world every year.
A spectacular journey into the heart of history
The IRONMAN 70.3 Versailles stands out thanks to its exceptional course:
-
Swimming in the Swiss Pond , located in the heart of the grounds of the Palace of Versailles. A unique starting point in a majestic and historically rich setting.
-
A 90km cycling route through the Chevreuse Valley , alternating between rolling sections and hilly terrain, ideal for athletes seeking performance.
-
A 21.1 km running race on several loops around the Swiss Pond and the Avenue de Paris, with an atmosphere promising to be intense and festive all the way to the finish line.
Each kilometer has been designed to enhance the heritage of Versailles while offering a real sporting challenge.
An international event with global reach
With this new event, Versailles joins the very exclusive circle of host cities for an IRONMAN 70.3. Thousands of triathletes from France and abroad are expected, accompanied by their loved ones, in an atmosphere combining sport, tourism and celebration.
The event also fits into the dynamic inherited from recent major sporting events in Île-de-France, strengthening the attractiveness of the territory on the world stage.
Triathlon Store Paris, ready to welcome triathletes from all over the world
For this exceptional race, Triathlon Store Paris is already preparing to welcome triathletes from all over the world .
Located in the heart of the Paris region, the store will be an essential stop for:
-
last-minute equipment
-
personalized advice before the race
-
Swimming, cycling and running equipment adapted to the 70.3 format
-
Sports nutrition and essential accessories to perform on race day
Whether for international athletes discovering France or for French triathletes preparing for this major goal, Triathlon Store Paris will do everything possible to support each participant in the best conditions .
A date to mark on your calendars now
-
📅 Date : Sunday , July 12, 2026
-
📍 Location : Versailles (Yvelines)
-
🏁 Event : IRONMAN 70.3 – The Royal Race
Registration will open soon on the official IRONMAN website, with a limited number of bibs available.
Versailles, the new capital of long-distance triathlon
With the IRONMAN 70.3 Versailles, France hosts a spectacular event in one of the most beautiful settings in the world. Combining sporting excellence, a regal setting, and popular enthusiasm, this race is already shaping up to be a highlight of the 2026 season .
Triathlon Store Paris will be proud to be part of this adventure and to support the triathletes who have come to take on this royal challenge. 👑🏊🚴🏃