A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO) and the Saudi Triathlon Federation has been signed to accelerate the growth of triathlon across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
It aims to establish a framework to develop the sport from grassroots to elite levels while inspiring mass participation and healthy lifestyles throughout the country.
The collaboration sets out a shared vision to build a sustainable and vibrant triathlon ecosystem, encompassing professional racing, youth development and community engagement. Central to the initiative is the delivery of world-class events that showcase the world’s best triathletes competing in the Kingdom on a global stage.
“Saudi Arabia has shown significant ambition and commitment to sport in recent years, and triathlon is perfectly placed to contribute to that vision,” said Sam Renouf, CEO of the PTO. “Through our collaboration with the Saudi Triathlon Federation and investment from SURJ Sports Investments, we’ll deliver world-class racing in the kingdom to inspire a new generation of athletes and fans and are working towards hosting our first event in Jeddah next November [2026].”
The MOU is built around five key pillars designed to transform triathlon in the country:
- Events – The agreement paves the way for Saudi Arabia to host world-class international triathlon events, including the T100 Triathlon World Tour and also extending to other World level events through the PTO’s long standing commercial partnership with World Triathlon. The partnership also supports the establishment of a Saudi National Triathlon Series, creating a nationwide platform for grassroots participation and athlete development.
- Content + Marketing – A strategic content and marketing plan to grow the visibility of triathlon across the Kingdom, including securing a KSA domestic broadcast partner for the sport in the region.
- Sporting Development – The collaboration aims to accelerate the development of Saudi national triathletes, providing them with exposure to international professionals competing in the Kingdom and clear development pathways.
- Social Development – Inspire health and wellness (both physical and mental) in the population of KSA through Triathlon and its component sports of swim, bike and run.
- Industry Development – Support for the development of local capabilities within KSA, from officials to event delivery volunteers to service the new ecosystem.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The partnership marks a major step in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing investment in sport as a driver of community health, economic growth, and international engagement and follows an investment by SURJ Sports Investment into the PTO in July.
Mishaal Al-Sulamain, President of the Saudi Triathlon Federation – pictured signing the agreement in Riyadh above – added: “This MOU represents a milestone moment for triathlon in Saudi Arabia. By working with global partners such as the Professional Triathletes Organisation and World Triathlon, we are creating pathways for our youth, opportunities for our national level athletes and experiences that bring communities together through mass participation. Our vision is to see triathlon become part of the Kingdom’s sporting identity – from grassroots to the world stage.”
Antonio Arimany, President of World Triathlon, commented: “World Triathlon is delighted to support this initiative, which perfectly aligns with our mission to grow the sport globally and make it accessible to all. Saudi Arabia’s investment in triathlon will open doors for athletes, coaches, and fans alike, strengthening our sport’s presence in the region and inspiring participation at every level.”
