Host a Major Triathlon Event in 2026

Call for Expressions of Interest (EOI)

Hosting a Major International Triathlon Event in 2026

About Triathlon Ireland

Triathlon Ireland is the national governing body for triathlon on the island of Ireland. Our core mission is the development, promotion, and safeguarding of the sport. We support this mission by working with affiliated clubs and event organisers, sanctioning high-quality events across Ireland, and developing participation pathways for athletes from novice to elite levels.

Purpose of this Expression of Interest

Triathlon Ireland invites expressions of interest from clubs, event organisers, and venue managers who are interested in hosting a major international triathlon event in 2026.

This event will combine Age Group, Youth, and Elite racing and is envisioned as a multi-day international showcase that highlights the host location while providing a world-class experience for athletes, spectators, and partners.

This EOI process aims to identify potential hosts with the capability, ambition, and vision to partner with Triathlon Ireland in delivering an exceptional event that can grow in stature over multiple years.

Building on Past Success

Triathlon Ireland is building on the success of the 2024 Europe Triathlon Cup and Europe Triathlon Junior Cup held in Cork, which demonstrated Ireland’s capacity to host elite-level international triathlon competitions. The event brought together top-tier athletes, passionate local communities, and a collaborative organising team that delivered a memorable and professionally executed weekend of racing.

The 2026 event represents an opportunity to build on that proven model, scale the experience even further, and deliver a truly flagship triathlon event on the island of Ireland.

Event Vision

To establish one of the largest and most prestigious triathlon events on the island of Ireland.
To host mass participation races alongside elite and youth competitions.
To deliver a festival-style experience that promotes health, wellness, and community engagement.
To achieve at least a break-even position, with strong potential for financial growth in subsequent years.

Triathlon Ireland's Commitment

Triathlon Ireland is committed to the long-term growth of international triathlon events in Ireland and is prepared to make a meaningful investment in the 2026 event, including:

Bid management – Europe Triathlon
Significant seed investment
Allocation of staff and operational resources for planning and delivery
Co-funding opportunities and logistical support
National and international promotion via our digital platforms and networks
Strategic guidance in line with Europe Triathlon and World Triathlon regulations

The structure of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) will consist of Triathlon Ireland, the Host Organisation, and the relevant Local Authority.

Proposed Event Inclusions

Europe Triathlon Cup (Elite)
Europe Triathlon Junior Cup
Draft-Legal Youth Series Races
Triathlon Ireland National Series (Mass Participation)
Junior National Series Event

What's Involved in Hosting - Core Infrastructure & requirements

We understand that potential hosts may be unsure about the level of infrastructure, facilities, or experience required to host an international triathlon. Below is a simple breakdown of the core requirements to help clarify expectations and reduce perceived barriers to entry.

Course Infrastructure

Swim Venue: Safe, clean body of water with good access for athletes and safety craft.
Bike Route: Closed-road or low-traffic roads (~5km to 20km per lap).
Run Route: Paved or high-quality footpath surfaces (~2.5km to 5km loops).
Transition Area: Secure, flat area near event HQ and athlete support.

Basic Facilities

Medical Support: On-site first aid/emergency medical cover.
Marshalling/Volunteers: Local volunteers for event support.
Road Access & Closures: Coordination with local authorities.
Athlete Facilities: Toilets, changing areas, hydration, and recovery.

Event HQ & Community Space

Space for registration, ceremonies, vendors, and engagement.
Room for branding, sponsor activation, and community activity.
Spectator-friendly zones for swim start/finish and transitions.

Partnerships & Local Support

Commitment from local authority or venue owner.
Collaboration potential with tourism or sport bodies.
Access to accommodation and transport for teams.

Don’t have all of this in place yet? That’s okay. We’re here to help shape and support your plan

Who Should Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

We welcome EOIs from:

Clubs or sporting organisations with capacity to co-host a national/international triathlon
Local authorities or municipalities interested in showcasing their area
Professional event organisers with experience in mass participation or high-performance sport

What to Include in Your EOI Submission

Submissions should include:

Overview of Host Proposal
- Proposed location and suitability for a triathlon event.
- Local infrastructure, accommodation, and transport.
Experience & Capacity
- Relevant experience in hosting major sporting events.
- Availability of local support and partnerships.
Vision for the Event
- How your location and approach will help elevate the status and experience of the event.
Key Contacts. Main point of contact and team members.

Next steps

Interested parties are requested to submit their expressions of interest by Friday, May 31st, 2025 to roisin@triathlonireland.com. If you have any questions or would like to reach out to the Triathlon Ireland team before submitting your EOI, please contact Roisin our National Events Co-Ordinator.

What Happens After the EOI?

Submissions will be reviewed by Triathlon Ireland, and selected parties may be invited to engage in a more detailed discussion or proposal process. A full tender or service agreement may be developed following this stage, depending on the strength of interest and suitability of proposals received.

Testimonials

Paul Mooney – Race Director Cork City Triathlon 2024

‘I’ve been organising large-scale triathlon events from 2015 to 2025, including the Vodafone Dublin City Triathlon, the European Junior Cup Dublin 2023, and the European Cup Cork 2024. Throughout this time, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with the Triathlon Ireland Events Team. Their consistent support, professionalism, and collaborative approach have been instrumental to the success of these events. Through our partnership, I’ve developed valuable experience in managing key stakeholders such as landowners, sponsors, athletes, and spectators. The team at Triathlon Ireland are solution-oriented, proactive, and always ready to offer guidance. I’m sincerely grateful for their support over the years.’

Ronan Forde – Assistant Race Director Cork City Triathlon 2024

‘Cork City European Triathlon was a great experience. Firstly, the insight of the requirements of an international event, the standards that must be met including the small details and rules that you normally would not see at another Triathlon are very interesting. Secondly, the moment after it finished was a very proud feeling knowing that every athlete got around safely and a bonus was the feedback, athletes smiles on their faces after finishing, especially the big smiles on the kid athletes. Finally, despite the many challenges and changes that had to be made in planning this massive event for the first time, being part of a successful, amazing team is a fantastic feeling. Hopefully we can do it again in 2026.’