Ironman 70.3 Returns to Colombo After Six Years, Over 1,000 Athletes Set to Compete

COLOMBO (News 1st); For the first time since 2019, Sri Lanka is set to welcome back one of the world’s most prestigious endurance sporting events, Ironman 70.3, returning to the heart of Colombo later this month.

After a six-year pause, the global triathlon series will once again transform the capital into an international sporting arena on 22 February, marking a major milestone in the country’s push to re-establish itself as a hub for elite global events.

The comeback is amplified by the #ActiveColombo initiative, which will launch a series of activities beginning 19 February, building momentum toward the main race day.

Organisers say this week-long celebration aims not only to support the triathlon but to reposition Colombo as a vibrant, active, and globally connected city.

More than 1,000 athletes from over 49 countries, along with international media crews and event partners, are expected to participate, placing Sri Lanka once again on the world map.

A press briefing held in Colombo today highlighted the significance of Ironman 70.3’s return, both for sport and for the city’s future identity.

Yasas Hewage, Organiser of Ironman 70.3 Colombo, delivered a passionate and strategic vision for what the event represents:

“Now everybody sees it, but it's about done a lot to take Sri Lanka to the world. But taking us to the active sports world and putting that map of Colombo back again is to say, Colombo is ready. Colombo is here.”

Highlighting the international pull of the event, Hewage noted:

“50 countries, 150 events. You search in the global map, the city is right there. You've got to build global linkages. You've got to be strategic. You've got to put your time and money and effort and resources where you win.”

Vraie Cally Balthazar, Mayoress of Colombo, emphasized that hosting Ironman 70.3 is part of a much larger transformation for the city.

“The launch of Ironman 70.3 Colombo is not simply the announcement of a sporting event, but a declaration of where our city is heading.”

The Mayoress praised the partnership between government and private sector:

“This event stands as a strong example of meaningful experiences you can have through private and public collaboration.”

Aligning the event with Colombo’s long-term development vision, she said:

“Ironman 70.3 represents something much larger than a race. It aligns with our vision of an active Colombo, a city that encourages movement of social, economic, and environmental benefit.”

Yes101 and Sirasa TV have been announced as the official media sponsors for this global sporting spectacle.