DATEV Challenge Roth
The world's largest long-distance triathlon in Franconian Roth
About Challenge Roth
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Triathlon History Since 1984
The DATEV Challenge Roth is considered the benchmark for long-distance triathlons worldwide. Its roots go back to 1984 when the first "Frankentriathlon" over a short distance of 700 m swimming, 40 km cycling, and 10 km running was held in the Middle Franconian town of Roth – inspired by the Ironman on Hawaii. Since 1990, the full long distance has been contested, and the small competition has grown into the largest and most famous triathlon event in the world, which sells out within minutes every year.
The Royal Distance
On race day, athletes start at 6:30 AM in the Main-Danube Canal, completing 3.8 km of swimming, 180 km by bike through the hilly Franconian countryside, and finishing with a 42.2 km marathon – a total of 226 kilometers. Around 3,400 individual starters and approximately 650 relay teams from more than 60 nations participate.
Solarer Berg – Tour de France Atmosphere
The heart of the course's atmosphere is the legendary Solarer Berg: tens of thousands of spectators crowd the short, steep climb, forming a tunnel through which cyclists battle their way, much like a mountain finish in the Tour de France. Hundreds of thousands of fans line the entire course between Roth, the Rothsee, and the surrounding communities of the district.
Festival of Endurance Sports
Around the race, a multi-day triathlon festival unfolds in Roth, featuring a welcome party on the historic market square, an expo, a pasta party, and an emotional finish line in the triathlon stadium. Roth is located in Middle Franconia in the state of Bavaria and is completely dedicated to triathlon throughout the weekend.
Challenge Roth — edition 2026
The DATEV Challenge Roth 2026 will be held on Sunday, July 5, 2026. The long-distance race (3.8 km swimming, 180 km cycling, 42.2 km running) begins at 6:30 AM in the Main-Danube Canal. As early as Friday, July 3, 2026, athletes will be welcomed by the town of Roth as part of the triathlon festival opening – with a welcome party around the historic market square.
On race day, guests and fans can cheer on the runners from 11:00 AM at the Roth market square. The detailed schedule will be published on the official website.
Programme Challenge Roth 2026
Friday, July 3, 2026 — Triathlon Festival Opening
- Welcome of the athletes by the town of Roth
- Welcome party around the historic market square with the BAYERN 3 band, the Babypumas, and DJ Tonic
Sunday, July 5, 2026 — Race Day
- 06:30 AM — Swim start in the Main-Danube Canal (3.8 km)
- 180 km bike course through the Franconian countryside, with Solarer Berg as the highlight
- Final 42.2 km marathon
- From 11:00 AM — Fans cheer at the Roth market square
- Emotional finish in the triathlon stadium (Solarer Berg / Finish Party)
Highlights Challenge Roth 2026
Prices Challenge Roth 2026
Practical information — Challenge Roth
Getting There
Roth is located about 25 km south of Nuremberg. Arrive by train via Roth station (S-Bahn line S2 from Nuremberg) or via the A9 / A6 motorways. Extensive road closures are in effect during the race weekend – public transport is highly recommended.
Spectators
Admission to the course and Solarer Berg is free. Particularly atmospheric are the swim start at the canal, Solarer Berg, and the finish line in the triathlon stadium.
Registration
Starting places for individual starters and relays are highly sought after and usually sell out within minutes. Information on registration and the late entry lottery can be found at challenge-roth.com.
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Travel to this festival
Reserva tu tren o autobús para llegar a Challenge Roth al mejor precio.
Sponsored link
Where it takes place Challenge Roth
Triathlon-Stadion Roth / Rothsee