The 2026 Ironman Athletes’ Choice Awards have been announced, and two European races have claimed top honors as the most highly rated events on the global circuit. For athletes planning a full-distance or 70.3 race this season, the message from fellow competitors is clear: Ironman Les Sables d’Olonne-Vendée and Ironman 70.3 Zell am See-Kaprun are the standout choices.
Zell am See-Kaprun’s victory marks its second consecutive year earning top recognition in the 70.3 category, underlining the Austrian race’s consistent delivery across organization, course design, and overall athlete experience.
Athlete-Driven Recognition
Like many major race organizers, Ironman surveys its athletes annually to determine which events provide the best overall experience. Based on these athlete evaluations, awards are distributed across several performance categories, highlighting excellence in course quality, organization, and participant satisfaction.
A notable takeaway from this year’s results is Europe’s dominance. Both overall winners – 140.6 and 70.3 – are hosted on European soil. In addition, Ironman Kalmar delivered a particularly strong showing, earning three separate awards.
2026 Ironman Athletes’ Choice Award Winners
Best Overall Race (140.6)
- Ironman Les Sables d’Olonne-Vendée
Best Overall Race (70.3)
- Ironman 70.3 Zell am See-Kaprun
Best Swim Course
- Ironman Malaysia
- Ironman 70.3 Western Australia
Best Bike Course
- Ironman Kalmar
- Ironman 70.3 Zell am See-Kaprun
Best Run Course
- Ironman Kalmar
- Ironman 70.3 Washington Tri-Cities
Most Recommended Race
- Ironman Kalmar
- Ironman 70.3 Cartagena
