NELSON MANDELA BAY REMAINS COMMITTED TO ITS LONG-STANDING PARTNERSHIP WITH IRONMAN SOUTH AFRICA
Published: June 01, 2026<< BACK TO NEWS
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Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality notes recent speculation regarding the future hosting of the IRONMAN African Championship following the conclusion of the current multiyear hosting agreement between the Municipality and IRONMAN South Africa after the successful staging of the 2026 event.
As discussions regarding future hosting arrangements continue, the Municipality wishes to reassure residents, businesses, athletes, tourism stakeholders and the broader public that Nelson Mandela Bay remains fully committed to maintaining its position as Africa's premier endurance sports destination and a world class host of major international sporting events such as the Ironman African Championships.
For more than two decades, Nelson Mandela Bay has proudly hosted the IRONMAN African Championship, building a globally recognised reputation as one of the most iconic and athlete friendly destinations on the international triathlon calendar. Through this partnership, the city has welcomed thousands of athletes and visitors from across South Africa, the African continent and the world, generating significant economic, tourism and destination branding benefits for the region.
The Municipality recognises that events of this stature attract interest from destinations around the world. Competition for major sporting events is a normal and healthy feature of the global events industry.
However, Nelson Mandela Bay remains confident in its unique value proposition, built on an unmatched combination of natural beauty, a proven event hosting track record, exceptional community support, favourable race conditions, tourism infrastructure and a deep connection between the event and the city.
The relationship between IRONMAN and Nelson Mandela Bay extends far beyond a hosting agreement. It has evolved into a strategic partnership that has helped position the Bay as the Home of IRONMAN in Africa while contributing to local economic growth, tourism development, job creation and international destination marketing.
The Municipality and IRONMAN South Africa remain engaged in constructive discussions regarding the future of the partnership. These engagements are ongoing and are being conducted in a spirit of mutual respect and collaboration.
Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay, Cllr Babalwa Lobishe, said, "Nelson Mandela Bay has proudly hosted the IRONMAN African Championship for more than twenty years and together we have built something truly special. This event has become part of our city's identity and has contributed immensely to our economy, tourism sector and international profile. We remain committed to constructive engagements with IRONMAN South Africa and are confident in the strength of our destination offering and partnership”.
The Municipality acknowledges concerns raised regarding infrastructure and athlete safety and wishes to assure all stakeholders that continuous improvements to event readiness, road maintenance and public safety remain important priorities. As with all major international events hosted in the city and across the world, the host city works closely with organisers, law enforcement agencies, tourism stakeholders and community partners to enhance the athlete and visitor experience.
Nelson Mandela Bay remains one of South Africa's leading event destinations, hosting a diverse portfolio of international sporting, cultural and business events that continue to drive investment, tourism growth and economic development.
The Municipality encourages stakeholders to avoid speculation and to rely only on verified information issued through official channels. Any announcements regarding future hosting arrangements will be made by the relevant parties once discussions have been concluded.
For specific enquiries relating to IRONMAN's event hosting decisions, bidding processes or event ownership matters, members of the media are encouraged to engage directly with IRONMAN South Africa. The Municipality will communicate on matters relating to its participation and partnership arrangements as and when appropriate.
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