Ironman has signed a partnership deal with Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism that will last throughout 2025. As part of the partnership, Qatar will be title partner of four Ironman events this year: Ironman 70.3 Sunshine Coast, Ironman Maryland, Ironman 70.3 Washington and Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney. Besides special discounts that will be offered to Ironman athletes, Qatar will “connect athletes, officials, and fans via Brisbane Airport, Dulles International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, and Sydney Airport, respectively.”
Akbar Al Baker, Chief Executive at Qatar Airways and Chairman at Qatar Tourism, said: “Our partnership with the Ironman group is a natural fit for our brand, where human endeavor proves that anything is possible. We admire the relentless effort and dedication of the athletes, attributes we strive to reflect in the way we serve our customers. Ironman races are hosted in different cities across the world, making our global network the perfect medium through which to connect endurance sports enthusiasts, athletes, supporters, and officials.”
Ironman CEO Andrew Messick commented: “Providing our athletes with an unmatched race experience is at the core of what we do, so we’re thrilled to partner with an airline that reflects our customer-centric approach and is committed to the highest standards in everything they do. Our Ironman events have long brought together different communities and cultures through their love of endurance sport, so how better to continue doing this than with the world’s fastest growing airline. This is the beginning of an exciting partnership for both of us, our athletes, and future athletes and supporters who we hope to welcome at an event in the near future.”
The deal was signed on Aug. 21 at the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum in Doha. As the first female Qatari triathlete to participate in an Ironman, Lulwa Al Marri (see photo) was part of the meeting.
