Chattanooga Selected to Host 2027 Ironman 70.3 World Championship

Chattanooga, Tennessee will host the 2027 Precision Fuel & Hydration Ironman 70.3 World Championship triathlon. The championship will be staged August 28–29, 2027, and is expected to attract 7,000 top professional and age-group triathletes who will have secured their starting spot at one of the over 120 qualifying events worldwide.

Chattanooga is a regular on the Ironman circuit, hosting both full-length and 70.3 distance races. But only athletes who qualify through top performances at races around the world will earn the right to compete at the championship, offering a wider, more international group of participants.

The city has hosted Ironman races since 2014. But the 2027 70.3 World Championships will mark 10 years since the city first hosted the pinnacle in 2017 — the first time the event was contested across two days. The 2017 event drew about 4,500 athletes from 90 countries, regions, and territories. At the time, it was the largest field in the event’s history, a feat that helped secure the city a spot on Ironman’s regular circuit.

The announcement of the 2027 championship was part of a new five-year agreement between the city and Ironman. The deal also includes the return of an Experience Oman Ironman Pro Series event to Chattanooga in the coming years.

“Chattanooga has already demonstrated its ability to deliver an exceptional Ironman 70.3 World Championship experience,” said Diana Bertsch, managing director, Ironman North America & World Championship Events. “From its stunningly scenic courses to the overwhelming community engagement, we are thrilled to return in 2027 and once again showcase this iconic destination to a global audience. This expanded partnership reflects our shared commitment to long-term success and continued growth, including the return of professional racing.”

The city’s course has been a popular one on the circuit, featuring a swim in the Tennessee River, rolling bike terrain into northern Georgia, and a scenic, spectator-friendly riverwalk run described by athletes as inviting and competitive.

Ironman events have proven successful in the market. In 2025, Ironman Chattanooga and Ironman 70.3 Chattanooga generated a combined $26.8 million in total economic impact. The 2027 event is projected to have an impact of more than $50 million.

“We’re thrilled that the Ironman 70.3 World Championship is returning to Chattanooga,” said Susan Harris, interim CEO of Chattanooga Tourism Co. “This is an incredible opportunity to share Chattanooga with a global audience, some of whom will become lifelong advocates for our city. What makes Chattanooga special is how our entire community comes together to create and support experiences that keep athletes and visitors coming back.”