Ironman reveals expanded 2026 North American calendar with new destinations

Ironman has released its full 2026 North American race schedule, introducing an energized mix of new venues alongside longtime favorites across the United States and Canada. Following another strong year of participation and increased global interest, the series will deliver an expanded lineup of Ironman and Ironman 70.3 events designed to elevate the athlete experience from start to finish.

Keats McGonigal, Senior Vice President & Managing Director for North America, emphasized the depth and diversity of the new season. “From rugged mountain backdrops to coastal escapes and urban energy, the diversity of our venues across North America creates unforgettable experiences for athletes of all levels. We are grateful to our host communities for their partnership and support as we continue delivering world-class race experiences to athletes from around the globe.”

The 2026 calendar introduces several new host cities that broaden the reach of the series across the continent. Among the most notable additions is Ironman Jacksonville, offering a full-distance race along Florida’s Atlantic shoreline. On the 70.3 side, athletes can look forward to fresh courses in Dallas–Little Elm, Omaha, Ruidoso–New Mexico, and Northern California. Each new event brings its own landscape – from high-altitude desert terrain to classic West Coast scenery – giving athletes more choice and more ways to shape their season.

Interest in Ironman racing across North America has never been higher. Three events – Ironman 70.3 Dallas–Little Elm, Ironman 70.3 Mont-Tremblant, and Ironman 70.3 Oregon – have already sold out ahead of the 2026 season. Several others, including Memorial Hermann Ironman Texas, Ironman Canada–Ottawa and Athletic Brewing Ironman 70.3 Oceanside, are nearing capacity as early registrations surge.

Data and trends

The surge in demand is fueled in part by a notable shift in athlete demographics. Ironman reports that its athlete base is getting younger: the average competitor age dropped from 43 in 2024 to 42 in 2025, and early 2026 registrations show an average age of just 39. The sport’s appeal among newer and younger endurance athletes continues to accelerate.

Growth is also reflected in participation numbers. In 2025, more than 37,000 athletes finished their first Ironman or Ironman 70.3 event in the U.S. or Canada – a 12 percent increase from the previous year. Canada led with a 20 percent expansion in athlete numbers, while the Chicago, Illinois region posted an impressive 37 percent rise.

2026 Ironman schedule of events to include:

2026 Ironman 70.3 schedule of events to include: