The wait is finally over as the 2026 World Triathlon Cup season launches this weekend with a historic debut. For the first time ever, the rugged and breathtaking volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote will host a stop on the World Cup circuit, marking a momentous milestone for an island that has long been a legendary training ground for the world’s elite triathletes. As the season opener, the race sets the tone for the year, challenging a world-class field ready to rumble and set the tone for a fantastic season to come. Buckle up! Get ready for some serious action, that you will be able to watch on TriathlonLIVE.tv.
The sprint-distance showdown will take place in the heart of Costa Teguise, centered around the iconic Playa de las Cucharas. Athletes will start with a 750m swim in the clear, protected waters of the bay, followed by a demanding 21km bike course consisting of three laps. The race will finish with a 5km run across two laps along the flat coastal promenade, offering spectators a front-row seat to the high-speed finale. With average temperatures around 21ºC and the island's signature winds always a potential factor, the technical nature of the course is expected to reward those who have done their homework during the winter off-season.
Leading the charge on the women's start list is Jeanne Lehair (LUX), the top-ranked athlete in the field. After her break-through season last year, which included her first-ever WTCS victory, Lehair is ready to start the new season with the goal set on improving it. She has consistently proven herself as a formidable force on the global stage, and her explosive speed in the sprint distance makes her the woman to beat in this season opener. However, the spotlight will also shine brightly on two British superstars making highly anticipated appearances: triple Olympic medalist and former World Champion Georgia Taylor-Brown, whose pedigree and championship experience make her a threat in any field, and Sophie Coldwell, who makes her inspiring return to the 'blue carpet' for her first race following maternity leave.
The competition remains deep with a strong German, spearheaded by Nina Eim and the rising talent of Franka Rust. Eim’s tactical brilliance and Rust’s hunger to make a mark early in the 2026 circuit ensure that the battle for the podium will be fierce from the first transition. Keep an eye also on Paris 2024 Mixed Relay gold medallist Laura Lindemann, returning to the circuit after a year off.
The home crowd will have plenty to cheer for as a strong Spanish contingent aims for a dream debut on home soil. Miriam Casillas García, a veteran of the sport and a perennial contender, leads the local hopes alongside Marta Pintanel Raymundo. Casillas García’s experience in high-pressure environments will be vital on the technical Lanzarote roads. Joining them are notable names like Noelia Juan and Marina Muñoz Hernando, all looking to leverage their familiarity with Spanish racing conditions to secure a top-ten finish in front of a passionate Canary Islands audience.
The international depth doesn't stop there, with Italy bringing a powerful roster including Verena Steinhauser, Ilaria Zane, and Beatrice Mallozzi. Steinhauser, in particular, has the pedigree to dictate the pace of the race if she can find herself in the leading pack after the swim. Additionally, keep an eye on Switzerland’s Cathia Schär and France’s Lea Coninx, both of whom have the raw speed required to disrupt the favorites in the final 5km run. With 56 elite women lining up for the first title of the year, Lanzarote is prepared to deliver a spectacular start to the World Triathlon Cup season.
Check HERE the full start list, and watch the race on TriathlonLIVE.tv