IRONMAN and WORLD CENTRIC GROUP announced today that the city of Puerto Varas, Chile, will be the newest host location of an IRONMAN®70.3® triathlon. The IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Varas triathlon will make its debut on Sunday, April 12, 2026. General registration is scheduled to open within the coming month at www.ironman.com/races/im703-puerto-varas.
"We are thrilled to continue expanding the IRONMAN brand throughout Chile. Our goal is to keep setting trends with this event and remain committed to delivering an excellent experience for our athletes — innovating with diverse and engaging activities, while also creating a sustainable event that lives up to the standards and spirit of the city of Puerto Varas, said Catalina Escudero, Communications Director for WORLD CENTRIC GROUP who owns and operates the new event."
The 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Varas triathlon will offer athletes an unforgettable experience racing through the picturesque region of southern Chile. Athletes will begin their race with a 1.9 km (1.2-mile) swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Llanquihue, with views of the iconic Osorno Volcano in the distance. Once out of the water, athletes will take on the 90 km (56-mile) bike course, which features an out-and-back route along the scenic roads that circle the lake. The course is mostly flat, with a few rolling hills, offering athletes a balance of fast-paced riding and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The closed roads will ensure a safe, enjoyable experience. After transitioning to the run, athletes will complete a 13.1-mile (21 km) run course, which follows a three-lap throughout the city and Puerto Varas’ Costanera, providing an incredible setting as they pass through lush forests and fields. The flat and fast run course will be well-supported by passionate local spectators who will cheer athletes toward the finish line.
Located in the heart of the Chilean Lake District, Puerto Varas, Chile offers athletes a truly unique South American race experience. This region of Chile is known for its stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear lakes, stunning views of the snow-capped volcanoes, and lush forests. Puerto Varas itself is a charming town with a mix of German heritage and a strong connection to the outdoors, making it the perfect location for an endurance event.
Puerto Varas Recovery Following Severe Weather Event
The announcement of the new IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Varas triathlon not only marks a major sporting milestone for southern Chile, but also represents a crucial opportunity for the city’s economic and sentimental recovery following a severe weather event that took place in May of this year. A powerful tornado significantly impacted local infrastructure and damaging more than 250 homes impacted the community and its residents. The staging of the new IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Varas in 2026 becomes even more meaningful to its host community, serving as a beacon to uplift community spirit and stimulate the local economy through tourism, hotel occupancy, and commerce. The event will become a symbol of resilience and hope, reinforcing IRONMAN’s commitment to its host communities and demonstrating how sport can be a driving force for sustainable development and reconstruction.
The 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Varas triathlon will offer qualifying slots to the 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship taking place in Nice, France.
For more information on the 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Varas triathlon, visit www.ironman.com/races/im703-puerto-varas. Athlete inquiries can be directed to puertovaras70.3@ironman.com.
For more information on the IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 brands and global event series, visit www.ironman.com.