Not only parts of northern Europe, but almost the entirety of the continent – including France – is currently experiencing a severe heatwave. This has now directly impacted the international triathlon calendar; Ironman has called off both Ironman Nice and Ironman 70.3 Nice, which were scheduled to take place this weekend.
The decision was made by the local authorities, who stated that canceling the event was absolutely necessary to protect the safety of athletes, organizers, and volunteers. Furthermore, they emphasized that allowing the event to go ahead would place an overwhelming and unacceptable burden on the available emergency and medical services.
Approximately 4,500 athletes were registered to compete in Ironman Nice and Ironman 70.3 Nice.
With multiple events across Europe already being canceled or modified due to the extreme weather conditions this weekend, it appears highly likely that more races across the continent could face a similar fate.
