Final Ironman Arizona triathlon to be held in East Valley in November

PHOENIX — After 21 years, the Ironman triathlon has reached the finish line in the Valley.

Ironman, the city of Tempe, the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community and Tempe Tourism announced Wednesday that the final edition of the 140.6-mile race will take place on Nov. 16.

“Over the past 20 years, Tempe and the greater Phoenix area have become one of most popular race destinations on the global Ironman circuit and a staple on our North American calendar,” Ironman Group Senior Vice President and Managing Director of North America Keats McGonigal said in a press release. “We look forward to making this November’s race one to remember.”

Why will the Ironman triathlon no longer be held in Arizona?

Growth in the East Valley, along with construction and development along parts of the 112-mile-long bike course, has made it hard for the race to find a decent course, according to the release.

Due to that and after hearing from community partners, the groups decided that 2025 would be the final edition of Ironman Arizona.

“Ironman racing is truly a community and Tempe has been honored to welcome countless athletes, spectators and volunteers from all over the world to our city,” Tempe Mayor Corey Woods said in the release. “We look forward to a memorable sendoff this November as we cheer on these dedicated triathletes.”

When was the first Ironman triathlon in Arizona?

The first Ironman Arizona was held in Tempe in 2005 and has since become a favorite for both athletes and fans.

In 2024, it was named the third-best race and third-best run course in North America in the Athlete’s Choice Awards.

The Arizona race is known as a top spot for triathletes to set personal-best times due to its swim in Tempe Town Lake and flat run course, along with low humidity and mild temperatures on race days, which typically range between 53 and 65 degrees.

Anyone interested in registering for the 2025 Ironman Arizona can do so on the race website. Registration, including fees, starts at $1,029.01.

It includes gear for the race, including a backpack and a flag, a medal, a shirt and a hat for finishing the race, along with nutrition on the course, food after the race and more.

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