In a landmark announcement that sent ripples through the global triathlon community, Challenge Cap Québec has confirmed the return of Long Distance triathlon to the province of Québec for the first time in three years. Set for June 28, 2026, this long-awaited debut will mark a thrilling new chapter in Canadian endurance sport – and it’s coming with some serious international firepower.
Thanks to an exclusive collaboration with the Challenge Roth – widely regarded as the crown jewel of Long Distance triathlon – Québec City is poised to host its first-ever 226K race right in the heart of its historic downtown. The announcement is more than just the return of the distance; it’s a bold statement of ambition. With this move, Challenge Québec is positioning itself as Canada’s most prestigious triathlon event.
In an unprecedented gesture that underscores the strength of this new alliance, Challenge Roth will grant guaranteed entry to its 2027 edition – a race that famously sells out in seconds – to the first 200 athletes who register for the 2026 Québec Long Distance race. For many triathletes, a start line in Roth is a dream that takes years to realize. For 200 lucky athletes, that dream just got a little closer.
The announcement, made in Québec City, brought together key figures in the sport: Mayor Bruno Marchand, Challenge Roth CEO Felix Walchshöfer, Challenge Cap Québec Executive Producer Dominique Piché, and Jort Vlam, CEO of Challenge Family. Together, they unveiled a vision of a world-class race that bridges continents, connects cultures, and redefines endurance excellence.
“As the birthplace of triathlon with participants from over 100 nations, we aim to build a bridge between this exciting new race and our legendary event in Roth,” said Walchshöfer. “We’re thrilled to offer Québec athletes a unique opportunity to take part in one of the sport’s most storied events.”
For Piché, the return of Long Distance is personal – and monumental.
“Bringing Long Distance triathlon back to Québec alongside a partner as iconic as Challenge Roth is a dream come true,” he said. “We’re not just organizing another race; we’re creating an experience worthy of the world’s greatest. It’s a major leap forward for our athletes, our community, and our city.”
Challenge Family CEO Jort Vlam echoed the enthusiasm.
“The inaugural Challenge Cap Québec raised the bar for triathlon in Canada. To now bring the ultimate distance here, in partnership with Roth – the very origin of Challenge Family – is an extraordinary milestone. The road to Roth now begins in Québec.”
Registration for the 2026 Long Distance event opens at 10:00 a.m. today, June 17, 2025. Athletes will face a classic and demanding 226 km course: a 3.8 km swim in the Bassin Louise, a 180 km bike ride along the Dufferin-Montmorency Highway, and a 42.2 km marathon run weaving through the Saint-Charles River trails, the Old Port, and ending in the vibrant core of Québec City.
