Vichy has been selected to host the European Triathlon Championships in 2024. This sporting event, one of the most important in the new Olympic cycle after the Paris 2024 Games, will enable elite triathletes to score points in the world rankings.
For many years now, Vichy has been involved in the organisation of a wide range of sports events, and for over 30 years has built up a wealth of experience in hosting major events.
Well known for its tourist, spa and gastronomic facilities, its central location and its reputation in the world of triathlon, Vichy is an attractive destination. For some years now, its sports facilities, its natural setting ideal for triathlon, and its development of thermal wellbeing have made Vichy a highly sought-after town for triathletes and sports enthusiasts in general. Vichy's mild climate and magnificent lake are also great assets for hosting such a competition. The dates chosen, 21 and 22 September 2024, are usually synonymous with fine weather and pleasant temperatures.
Situated 3 hours by car from Geneva, 3.5 hours from Paris and 2 hours from Lyon international airport, which itself has direct flights to many European capitals, Vichy is easily accessible for Europeans. Once here, triathletes and accompanying adults will find a wide range of services and will appreciate the serenity of the town.
Vichy wrote a page in the history of short-distance triathlon with the first stages of the France Iron Tour in '94, '95 and '96: the first looped courses in the heart of the town and the presence of the world's best triathletes showed that triathlon could be a real sporting spectacle, as it would become a few years later at the Sydney Olympic Games.
Since then, Vichy has never ceased to host major triathlon events, notably the Challenge and Ironman.
In 2023, the town returned to short-distance triathlon by once again hosting the elite events. The Iron Tour has returned to the city of triathlon, under a new name that is more in tune with today's values of sustainable development: the Green Tour by FitDays.
The town is now ready to make a definitive return to the distance that will shine at the Paris 2024 Games by hosting the rematch in September 2024... There's a good chance that the medals will be European in triathlon.
By entrusting Vichy with the 2024 Europe Championship, Europe Triathlon (the European triathlon federation) is sure to host its major post-Olympic event. In addition to the two Elite races, for men and women, in the heart of the town, Vichy will also host the para-triathlon competition and two age-group events, in sprint and standard distances.
The competition will bring together nearly 2,000 triathletes from 46 countries, making Vichy the European city of triathlon. Vichy confirms its place as an emblematic venue for world triathlon.
Check out the official clip below!
Discover the town of Vichy and all its charm in the video below...