Ironman Partners With The Itu

Ironman and the International Triathlon Union (ITU) have agreed to a new cooperation framework to further develop and grow the sport of triathlon.

The Ironman ultra-triathlon challenges are currently run by the for-profit World Triathlon Corporation, outside of the remit of the ITU, which operates as the international governing body for the multi-discipline sport.

After a week of meetings at Ironman headquarters in Tampa, Florida, senior leaders from both organisations, including ITU president and International Olympic Committee (IOC) member Marisol Casado and Ironman president and CEO Andrew Messick, agreed on a growth framework that is the culmination of several years of work together.  

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by both parties citing key priorities and next steps to ensure the growth of the sport. In particular, the MOU focused on standardised rules, further collaboration on anti-doping efforts, national federation relations, sanctioning, a single-set of rules, and collaborative marketing initiatives to grow the sport at the age-group level.

Messick said: “Our collaboration with the ITU is of considerable importance for the prolonged and continuous growth of triathlon. We share a common goal, have worked well together in recent years, and have developed trust in the ITU leadership group. I believe that the productive conversations that led to this milestone are pivotal for the continued progression of triathlon.”

Casado added: “The best way to grow triathlon, and improve the sport at all levels, is to do so together. Continuing strong collaboration with Ironman will serve to further evolve triathlon across the world. I look forward to many more fruitful meetings, and creating the best possible environments for athletes, following this cornerstone moment.”