Former Ironman World Champion Laura Philipp has never been one for dull announcements – and she’s starting 2026 the same way she races: with intent and a touch of flair.
Instead of issuing a straightforward social media post, the German star posted two stylized course maps, challenging her followers to identify the events based solely on the route outlines. “It’s time to plan the 2026 season,” she wrote, adding that she wanted to make the announcement interactive – just as she did last year.
It didn’t take long for sharp-eyed fans to decode the clues.
Season Kick-Off in Aix-en-Provence
Philipp will open her campaign on May 17 at Ironman 70.3 Aix-en-Provence. The French 70.3 race has become one of the most popular early-season fixtures on the European calendar, known for its scenic but demanding bike course and competitive international field.
For Philipp, the race offers an ideal early benchmark as she builds toward the bigger targets of the year.
European Title Defense in Hamburg
Three weeks later, on June 7, the 39-year-old will line up at Ironman Hamburg, which will host the Ironman European Championship. The race holds special significance for Philipp: she claimed victory there in both 2022 and 2025 and returns as defending champion.
Hamburg’s fast course and electric atmosphere along the Alster have suited her well in the past – and the prospect of a third win will undoubtedly add another compelling storyline to the event.
