Ironman Arizona 2025: The highly anticipated Ironman Arizona 2025 is set to take place this Sunday in Tempe, marking the final year the city will host the iconic triathlon after a successful 20-year run. However, officials warn that incoming storms across the Valley may impact key portions of the event, including the swimming stage at Tempe Town Lake.
Storm Concerns May Disrupt Sunday’s Race
Rain is expected throughout the weekend, and race officials confirm that even two-tenths of an inch of rainfall would require water retesting before athletes are cleared to swim. Participants will not know until Sunday morning whether the swim portion of Ironman Arizona 2025 will be canceled due to safety and water-quality concerns.
Earlier in the weekend, weather conditions already forced the cancellation of the AZ Barrels, Bottles and Brews event. Organizers announced full refunds for ticket holders, raising additional concerns about how the storm system may affect Sunday’s triathlon.
Final Ironman in Tempe After 20 Years
This year’s Ironman Arizona 2025 carries special significance as Tempe hosts the event for the last time. The city’s rapid growth and increased construction have made it difficult for organizers to maintain race routes. Tempe Mayor Corey Woods called the race’s farewell emotional, saying the community was proud to support athletes for more than two decades.
Since joining the Ironman circuit in 2005, Tempe has become a beloved destination due to its desert backdrops, favorable climate, and passionate local support.
Start Times and Race Format
Ironman Arizona 2025 begins Sunday, November 16:
- Pro Men: 6:40 a.m. MST
- Pro Women: 6:45 a.m. MST
- Age-Group Athletes: 6:50 a.m. MST
There will be no livestream, but fans can follow all results and splits on the Ironman Tracker App.
Athletes to Watch: Sam Long, Alice Alberts Lead the Fields
American star Sam Long is the biggest name in the men’s field, although his participation could depend on the timing of his family’s newest arrival. Long has two victories this season and remains the heavy favorite if he competes.
Other key contenders include:
- Rasmus Svenningsson (SWE) – Recent IRONMAN Chattanooga winner
- Trevor Foley (USA) – Multiple podium finishes in 2025
- Joe Skipper (GBR) – Former Arizona champion
- Matt Hanson (USA) – Five-time IRONMAN winner
In the women’s field, Alice Alberts headlines the competition after a strong 2025 season that included top-10 finishes at IRONMAN Texas and Eagleman 70.3. Other challengers include Elisabetta Curridori, Stephanie Clutterbuck, and Annamarie Strehlow.
Course Overview for Ironman Arizona 2025
Athletes will face:
- A 3.9 km swim loop in Tempe Town Lake
- A fast 179 km bike route through the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
- A 42 km run along Tempe Town Lake and Papago Park
Known for its speed and flat terrain, the course is expected to produce competitive times—weather permitting.
$100,000 Prize Purse Up for Grabs
Ironman Arizona 2025 features a $100,000 prize purse for professional athletes, with $15,000 awarded to each winner. The payout extends to the top 10 finishers, making the event one of the more rewarding stops on the Ironman circuit.