Imagine powering through turquoise waters, stunning coastal roads, and cheering crowds under the warm Vietnamese sun—all in one unforgettable race. That’s exactly what’s coming in 2026! For the first time ever, Vietnam will host a full-distance IRONMAN triathlon, and there’s no better place for it than the vibrant, beachside city of Da Nang.
A Historic First: Vietnam Lands the Full-Distance IRONMAN
On a bright September morning in 2025, inside the elegant Radisson Hotel Danang, the IRONMAN Group officially unveiled what many athletes and fans have long hoped for—Vietnam will host a full-distance IRONMAN. This milestone moment isn’t just huge for Vietnam—it’s groundbreaking for Southeast Asia’s sports scene.
🏊🚴🏃Mark your calendars! The IRONMAN Vietnam 2026 is happening on May 10, 2026. It’s going to take place alongside the already-famous IRONMAN 70.3 Da Nang, which has drawn elite athletes and enthusiastic amateurs alike to its shores since 2015.
Why Da Nang? Here’s Why It’s the Perfect Fit
Da Nang isn’t just a stunning travel destination—it’s a city that knows how to host. With world-class hotels, passionate locals, and the iconic beachfront promenade, it’s no wonder organizers have full confidence in the city’s ability to deliver a world-class experience.
Jeff Edwards, Managing Director of the IRONMAN Asia region, summed it up beautifully when he said:
“Da Nang has proven year after year to be the perfect destination for IRONMAN 70.3. Bringing the full IRONMAN distance to Vietnam is a natural and exciting evolution.”
Local leadership is also all in. With support from city officials like Vice Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Anh Thi and tourism leaders like Nguyen Trong Thao, there’s a shared commitment to make this not just an international sporting event, but a community triumph.
More Than a Race—It’s a Cultural Journey
Trinh Bang, the co-founder of Sunrise Events Vietnam, shared a powerful perspective:
“Since bringing IRONMAN 70.3 to Vietnam in 2015, we’ve dreamed of more. This full-distance IRONMAN represents Vietnam stepping up to take its place on the global stage of endurance sport.”
From the start, the focus hasn’t solely been about the race. It’s about showcasing Vietnam’s culture, hospitality, and its ascension as a hub for sport tourism. Elite athletes, families, weekend warriors—everyone will have something to remember.
And for spectators? Just picture it: cheering on under a glowing sunset, local street food nearby, and traditional Vietnamese hospitality elevating the atmosphere to something truly magical. This isn’t just race day—it’s a celebration.
The Course: Brutal, Beautiful, and Unforgettable
Let’s talk about the course—the heart of it all. It’s designed to challenge and inspire.
🏊 3.8KM Open Water Swim – My Khe Beach
Athletes will begin with a two-loop swim in the calm yet unpredictable waters of the East Sea, starting from My Khe Beach. The triangular layout gives racers a chance to test their navigation and endurance—right from the get-go.
🚴 180KM Bike Ride – Coastal to Countryside
Once out of the water, participants will switch to bikes and pedal through two scenic loops. From the open sea views of Vo Nguyen Giap Street to the peace and quiet of rural paddies beyond the city, this ride has it all. It’s a visual treat that demands strength and focus.
🏃♂️ 42.2KM Run – Cheered on by Locals
The marathon course is a four-lap stretch hugging the beach—where energy from the crowd is just as strong as the sea breeze. You’ll feel the love and hype from Da Nang residents cheering at every turn.
At the finish line in East Sea Park, the sense of accomplishment will be impossible to describe…
Path to the World Championships
Looking for more than the glory of finishing a full IRONMAN in Vietnam? Top finishers will earn coveted slots to the 2026 IRONMAN World Championship. Yes, this race is your golden ticket to the Big Show!
What This Means for Vietnam
Hosting a full-distance IRONMAN isn’t just about a race—it’s about raising the national profile. Leaders from the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism agree: this is key not only for advancing athletic excellence but also for boosting community health, international tourism, and Vietnam’s overall global presence.
Rob Zamacona, CEO of Sunrise Events Vietnam, added:
“This is the result of years of vision, partnerships, and shared belief. We’ve built the infrastructure and community. Now, we’re ready to deliver a world-class experience.”
Registration Is Now Open!
Excited? We don’t blame you. Whether you’re a triathlon veteran or an inspired first-timer, this event is going to be legendary.
📅 Official race registration opens on September 25, 2025.
🔥 Visit the official race page for more info: IRONMAN Vietnam
Final Thoughts: This Is More Than a Race. It’s a Revolution.
IRONMAN Vietnam 2026 isn’t just a sporting event—it’s a new chapter for the country, the city of Da Nang, and the global IRONMAN community. It’s the celebration of endurance, of dreams realized, and of cultures coming together over a shared love for challenge and triumph.
So whether you’re racing or cheering from the sidelines, mark your calendar. May 10, 2026, is the day Vietnam steps fully into the spotlight of global endurance sports—and you’re invited to be part of it.
Stay strong. Stay inspired. See you at the starting line in Da Nang! 🇻🇳💥
More Resources
- 💻 Learn more about IRONMAN Vietnam
- 🖼️ Event Highlights & Photos
- 🌐 IRONMAN Group Overview
- 🎯 Sunrise Events Vietnam – Official Organizer
- 🌟 Advance & IRONMAN Partnership Info
Let’s make history, together. 🏅