Here are the 4x IRONMAN® dates for South Africa in 2026
The brand so strong that you tattoo their logo onto your calf has 4x races in South Africa in 2026 and here are the dates. And they are so protective of their brand that we have to include the registered symbol after the IRONMAN name. Without further ado, here are the all the IRONMAN® dates for South African races in 2026. Let’s go! PS, are we doing our own thing?
RECAP: IRONMAN® distances
If you we wondering where the names come from, it is simply by adding up the respective swim/bike/run distances. Note the metric vs imperial though. For South Africa, the Short and the long ones are in PE (in April). While the 2x half IRONMAN® events are in Durban (June) and Mosselbaai (November).
- Sprint: There is a 5150 IRONMAN® sprint event with distances of a 1.5 km swim, a 40 km bike ride, and a 10 km run, for a total distance of 51.5 km.
- Half: Suddenly it swops from metric to imperial. The 70.3 half IRONMAN® has distances of 70.3 miles (113 km), consisting of a 1.2-mile (1.9 km) swim, a 56-mile (90 km) bike ride, and a 13.1-mile (21.1 km) run, making it half the distance of a full Ironman.
- Full: And the full IRONMAN® with distances of 2.4-mile (3.8 km) swim, a 112-mile (180 km) bike ride, and a 26.2-mile (42.2 km) marathon run, totaling 140.6 miles (226 km).
IRONMAN® 5150 in Port Elizabeth: April 18, 2026
When is the IRONMAN® tri in PE? Race date April 18, 2026
A short IRONMAN® triathlon event with a flat bike and run and avg 14-23 degrees Celsius low and high and 20 degrees water temp. Nelson Mandela Bay – named after the freedom fighter and world icon of peace – hosts ISUZU 5150 Nelson Mandela Bay again in 2025. This race alongside IRONKIDS South Africa, The ISUZU Corporate Triathlon Challenge powered by AlgoaFM and IRONMAN South Africa African Championship make up the special 20th Anniversary celebration weekend.
Full IRONMAN® in Port Elizabeth: April 19, 2026
When is the IRONMAN® Port Elizabeth? Race date April 19, 2026
This is the big one! See the ISUZU IRONMAN® South African Championship, Nelson Mandela Bay. Named after the freedom fighter and world icon of peace — hosts Africa’s most renowned triathlon. An IRONMAN Championship race that pulses with South African spirit, experience the breathtaking courses and feverish support at this postcard-perfect beachside destination. A course that has stood the test of time, seen IRONMAN royalty wow the epic crowds and had thousands crowned with the ultimate title in endurance sport. 2026 will see the race move into its 21st year.
Half IRONMAN® 70.3 in Durban: June 7, 2026
When is the half IRONMAN® in Durban? Race date June 7, 2026
Durban, situated in the Province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is a natural paradise known for its sun-kissed beaches and subtropical climate. Easily accessible from all the main airports of South Africa, Durban is a multi-cultural showpiece international destination. The IRONMAN 70.3 Durban is the perfect peak-season race for international athletes, and mid to late season race for South Africans. A fairly flat and fast course, this race is a first-timer and club favourite.
Half IRONMAN® 70.3 in Mossel Bay: opening soon
When is the half IRONMAN® in Mosselbaai? TDB opening soon
Mossel Bay offers scenic beauty of the majestic Outeniqua Mountains and the azure-blue sea, rolling green hills and pastures, rich agriculture, and culture. Fynbos, aloes, dolphins and whales, a place one can only describe as paradise – a tourists dream. Mossel Bay’s history is unique and was pivotal to the development of the rest of South Africa. A hilly bike with a rolling run. And water temp of 20 degrees. Expect a low and high temp of between 14 to 23 degrees Celsius on average.
Send your bicycle to the IRONMAN®
#bicyclecouriers will collect and deliver your bike from home or a shop and to your hotel or bke shop on the receiving end in PE, Durban or Mosselbaai. It couldn’t be easier. Now, off to training!
