The Valley of the Sun to celebrate its final edition of IRONMAN Arizona in 2025
Since joining the IRONMAN circuit in 2005, Tempe has become a beloved race destination
IRONMAN, the City of Tempe, Tempe Tourism, and the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC) have announced that following 21 years of IRONMAN® events in Tempe, Arizona, a chapter will close on this iconic race as the area hosts its final IRONMAN Arizona triathlon this November.
The final IRONMAN Arizona triathlon in Tempe will take place on November 16, 2025, which will complete the most recent agreement between Tempe, SRPMIC, and IRONMAN. Continued growth in the area, coupled with extensive construction and development along portions of the bike course have made it a challenge to find a viable area to host the course. With input from community partners, it was concluded that after a long and successful run, IRONMAN’s time in Arizona would be celebrated and the 2025 edition would be the final one to take place in Tempe.
“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,” said Keats McGonigal, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of North America for The IRONMAN Group. “We are grateful for the wonderful partners that we have in the City of Tempe, Tempe Tourism, and the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community for hosting and helping to create this long standing and popular IRONMAN event. We look forward to making this November’s race one to remember.”
“For more than two decades, the IRONMAN Arizona triathlon has introduced countless athletes and spectators to Tempe,” said Michael Martin, President & CEO of Tempe Tourism. “Each year, our city has celebrated the feats of greatness that this event is known for as well as the unique stories each event brought with it. It has been a thrill to witness athletes representing various abilities and nationalities race across the finish line in our community. While we will miss having this event, it will always be known as one of the best events Tempe has ever hosted.”
“IRONMAN racing is truly a community, and Tempe has been honoured to welcome countless athletes, spectators and volunteers from all over the world to our city.” said Tempe Mayor Corey Woods. “For more than 20 years, our Valley has shared its stunning views, beautiful desert climate and urban atmosphere. We look forward to a memorable sendoff this November as we cheer on these dedicated triathletes.”
Since joining the IRONMAN circuit in 2005, Tempe has become a beloved race destination. Athletes have flocked to the Valley of the Sun for its breathtaking desert scenery, urban appeal and unique courses. The course and area quickly gained a reputation for its distinctive desert flare, friendly community and breathtaking course. An athlete favourite, the Paradox IRONMAN Arizona race, regularly received accolades over the years, most recently earning recognition in the 2024 Athletes’ Choice Awards, being chosen as the 3rd Best Race and 3rd Best Run course in North America. The race has also been known for having some of the best spectator support in the North American circuit, with the thousands of friends, families and locals coming out to support and the cheer on the athletes year after year.
Athletes interested in participating in the final IRONMAN event in Tempe on November 16, 2025, can still register by visiting www.ironman.com/races/im-arizona.
For more information on the IRONMAN brand and global event series, visit www.ironman.com.