Abu dhabi: Abu Dhabi will host the 2026 World Triathlon Multisport Championships, cementing its reputation as a premier global destination for multisport and endurance events. Abdulraheem Hassan Al Zarooni, Corporate Communications Office Director at the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC), and Jamie Dean, Executive Director - Sports at Modon, received the championship flag from this year's host, the Spanish city of Pontevedra, during the tournament's closing ceremony. The handover marked the official announcement of Abu Dhabi as the host city of the upcoming edition in November next year.
According to Emirates News Agency, Talal Mustafa Al Hashemi, Executive Director of Events Sector at ADSC, emphasised that winning the bid to host this prestigious global sports event reflects the growing international confidence in the UAE capital's capabilities to organise world-class events to the highest global standards. Talal Al Hashmi said that the 2026 World Triathlon Multisport Championships is a significant addition to Abu Dhabi's sporting calendar that contributes to building a lasting sports legacy for the emirate. The event offers an opportunity to foster a culture of community and competitive sports while delivering a comprehensive experience that combines professionalism with cutting-edge infrastructure.
Deepak Jain, CEO of Modon Communities, expressed excitement about the flag handover from Pontevedra to Abu Dhabi, marking the start of the countdown to the 2026 event. He looks forward to welcoming participants and visitors from across the globe to Hudayriyat Island next year. Jain stated that they will work together with partners and stakeholders, including ADSC, WORLDSPORT, and UAE Triathlon, to deliver an unforgettable experience for athletes and fans alike.
Set to run from 13-22 November 2026, the landmark global sports event is coming to Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi's ultimate multisport destination developed by Modon, for the first time. The championships are poised to attract more than 3,000 triathletes from around the world, who will compete across six disciplines - Duathlon, Cross Duathlon, Cross Triathlon, Aquathlon, Long-Distance Triathlon, and Aquabike. On the sidelines, the event will feature a rich programme of activities for participants and spectators, including festival villages and cultural showcases. More than 80 percent of attendees are expected to come from abroad, boosting Abu Dhabi's hospitality and tourism sector. Visitor numbers are projected to exceed 8,000, generating more than 30,000 hotel room nights and more than US$10 million in revenue.
