World Triathlon plans winter World Cup circuit with Andorra as likely host

World Triathlon is aiming to launch a new winter triathlon World Cup circuit, with Andorra positioned as a probable host venue, though agreements with the country's communes have yet to be reached, organisers said.

Speaking at a press conference attended by World Triathlon president Antonio Fernández alongside representatives of the Andorran federation and the government, officials said the project already has five confirmed countries — Japan, China, Kazakhstan, Italy and Spain — while Andorra figures among the likely hosts. The United States has also expressed interest, though it remains unclear whether it would join in 2027 or in later editions.

Fernández described the proposed circuit as a first for the discipline, noting that a World Cup format "did not previously exist." The initiative is part of World Triathlon's broader effort to develop the sport and, in the longer term, to push for winter triathlon's inclusion in the Winter Olympic Games.

Edurne López, president of the Andorran Triathlon Federation, said Naturland is one of the sites being considered to stage the event. The final location and the event's viability will depend on negotiations with the communes involved.

Alain Cabanes, Secretary of State for Youth and Sports, acknowledged that the project is "within reach" but stressed that the involvement of communal administrations is essential.

Fernández also highlighted the sport's growing momentum in Andorra, saying it "is starting to have a different dynamic" and that the federation and its athletes had long awaited the opportunities they deserve. López, for her part, pointed to the federation's ambition to keep developing the sport in the country, with priorities including the promotion of women's triathlon, work with youth categories, and the training of Andorran coaches and officials, with the goal of building a structure that can capitalise on the arrival of the World Cup.