2026 Ironman Pro Series set for blockbuster season opener in Taupō

The 2026 edition of the Ironman Pro Series gets underway on 7 March in Taupō, where a record field of more than 40 professional triathletes from 15 nations will line up at IM New Zealand.

Now in its 42nd year, the iconic race – the world’s second-oldest Ironman – boasts one of the deepest professional fields in its history. Beyond the prestige, there is plenty at stake: a US$125,000 prize purse, 5,000 valuable Pro Series points, and four qualifying slots per gender for the 2026 Ironman World Championship on Kona.

Organised by The IM Group, the 2026 Pro Series spans 16 races across six continents, including six full-distance IM events, eight IM 70.3 races, plus the Ironman and Ironman 70.3 World Championships. Professionals will chase a share of the US$1.7 million year-end bonus pool, with US$200,000 awarded to both the top-ranked male and female athletes.

Leading the charge in the women’s race is reigning Pro Series champion Kat Matthews, who returns to Taupō to begin her title defence. Matthews has fond memories of racing here, having finished runner-up when Taupō hosted the 2024 IM 70.3 World Championship, and she will be aiming to start her 2026 campaign with maximum points.

Defending race champion Regan Hollioake headlines a strong challenge, alongside local favourite Hannah Berry, who will look to capitalise on home support. Two-time Ironman New Zealand winner Jocelyn McCauley adds further pedigree, while noted swim specialists Lotte Wilms and Rebecca Clarke could dictate the early pace in Lake Taupō.

With championship qualification, significant prize money and early momentum in the Pro Series standings all on the line, Taupō is once again poised to deliver a compelling start to the long-course triathlon season.

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In the men’s field, 2025 series champion Kristian Blummenfelt is the favourite. The Norwegian athlete, an Olympic gold medallist and former IM World Champion, will face off against defending Taupō champion Mike Phillips. Phillips holds the current course best time of 7:45:47, set during the 2025 season. The men’s entry list also features Taupō local Kyle Smith and French Olympian Pierre Le Corre, who is making his Ironman debut.