IRONMAN in conjunction with Ottawa Tourism announced today that Canada’s Capital city of Ottawa will become the newest location to host an IRONMAN® Canada triathlon beginning in 2025. The iconic full-distance IRONMAN event will make its debut in front of Canada’s Parliament on Sunday, Aug. 3, 2025. General registration for the 2025 IRONMAN Canada-Ottawa triathlon, part of the VinFast IRONMAN North America Series, will open on April 22, 2024, and can be accessed by visiting, www.ironman.com/im-canada-ottawa.
“We are thrilled to announce this new partnership with Ottawa and bring IRONMAN Canada-Ottawa, one of our most historic race franchises, to the Canadian Capital,” said Keats McGonigal, Vice President, North America Operations for The IRONMAN Group. “Ottawa offers the quintessential Canadian race environment with a plethora of outdoor activities, great weather and a mosaic of culture all nestled at the very seat of government. IRONMAN Canada has played a prominent role in the history of IRONMAN and will continue with the expansion to Ottawa. We are enthusiastic and excited to see what futures hold here in Ottawa, Ontario.”
“I am thrilled to welcome the Ironman Canada competition to Ottawa,” said Mark Sutcliffe, Mayor of the City of Ottawa. “I love this city and so will you. There are so many triathletes in Ottawa. And it’s an absolutely stunning and beautiful place to swim, bike and run. It’s also the perfect location for outdoor adventures and world class events, especially an event as prestigious as Ironman Canada. Ottawa is a great place for this amazing competition. Everyone from athletes to families, friends and fans will have an amazing race experience here. I look forward to seeing everyone here in August 2025.”
The 2025 IRONMAN Canada-Ottawa triathlon will begin with a 3.8km (2.4-mile) two-loop swim in the Ottawa River from Britannia Beach and Park. From there athletes will embark on a 2.75 loop bike course using the completely closed parkways that pass through the city of Ottawa made available by the National Capital Commission. Once through the 180km bike course, the athletes will transition to the run in the downtown core of Ottawa and start their marathon from the base of Parliament Hill. The two-loop course will utilize some of the same completely closed parkways the bike used but extended beyond those areas once again to trace along the Rideau Canal and the streets in front of Parliament. Athletes will enjoy a truly urban setting with a healthy dose of scenery along the Ottawa River and the Rideau Canal.
“Ottawa Tourism looks forward to working with IRONMAN Canada-Ottawa to organize their 2025 triathlon,” said Michael Crockatt, President and CEO of Ottawa Tourism. “This event showcases the resilience and determination of athletes from far and wide, leaving a legacy of excellence in our city. We’re confident about this partnership and believe this will significantly contribute to our local economy, grow our sports tourism market, inspire our community, and further showcase our ability to host world-class events. Ottawa’s scenic landscapes and vibrant communities are ready to welcome participants and spectators alike for an unforgettable experience.”
“The National Capital Commission is pleased to collaborate with Ottawa Tourism and IRONMAN to bring this premier event to our city,” said Tobi Nussbaum, Chief Executive Officer, National Capital Commission “We look forward to welcoming athletes and spectators to what will surely be an outstanding event. There’s always so much to do and see during summer in Ottawa, from our spectacular shorelines to our historic downtown. Whether you enjoy spending time in the forest or near the water, picnicking in an urban park or exploring our country’s rich history, the National Capital Region is the place to be.”
Canada’s capital offers an ideal setting to explore some of the nation’s finest attractions, festivities, and cuisine within a welcoming and friendly metropolitan atmosphere. With its unique blend of urban and rural beauty, Ottawa boasts year-round outdoor adventures and vibrant neighbourhoods. From pristine outdoor spaces within the city to the picturesque countryside, there is a diverse range of activities to enjoy. Framed by stunning waterways such as the Ottawa River, Rideau River, and the Rideau Canal – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the region provides a captivating backdrop for unforgettable experiences. From spring through fall, visitors can go boating or paddling; for an adrenaline rush, one of the world’s best whitewater rafting destinations is just over an hour from the city centre. Winter weather brings opportunities for snowshoeing and skiing (cross-country and downhill), as well as ice skating options ranging from trails in the forest to the world’s largest skating rink, the Rideau Canal Skateway.
The IRONMAN Canada-Ottawa triathlon, part of the VinFast IRONMAN North America Series, will offer qualifying slots to the 2026 VinFast IRONMAN World Championship.
