The high temperatures currently scorching France have once again disrupted Ironman’s plans. Just two weeks after the organization was forced to cancel Ironman Nice and Ironman 70.3 Nice, the same fate has now befallen Ironman 70.3 Versailles. This race was not only a new addition to the calendar but was also completely sold out.
French newspaper Les Echos reports that the event is being canceled due to an anticipated heatwave; the Yvelines department is under an orange weather alert for the upcoming weekend, with temperatures predicted to reach up to 40 degrees Celsius. Earlier this week, it already seemed likely that the swim would be called off due to poor water quality, but now the entire event appears to be canceled. While the newspaper has already reported on the cancellation, Ironman has not yet issued an official statement. A total of nearly 2,500 athletes were set to compete.
According to Les Echos, the race is being canceled due to ‘severe health risks.’ “We want to guarantee the availability of emergency and rescue services. The health and emergency services are already under tremendous pressure,” the department stated.
