TRIATHLON – Ironman 70.3 World Championship Nice: What is the economic impact?

From a sporting perspective, there is no doubt that the 2019 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Nice will be exceptional. Once again, history will be written among the world’s best on the famous French Riviera. But it’s not just about the sport. The IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship, split over two days of competition, September 7 and 8, offers a week rich in festivities and parallel events, and is also expected to reach economic records.
 
“We expect a total of 20,000 people including athletes, family members, friends, supporters, volunteers and staff,” said Stefan Petschnig, Managing Director IRONMAN Europe, Middle East and Africa.

Feedback from athletes at the 2017 and 2018 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships shows that participants stay an average of more than six nights in the host city. In addition, athletes seek quality accommodation and participate in additional activities for themselves and their families before and after race day. In total, organizers expect a total economic impact of 22.5 million euros (25 million USD) for the host city and region. On average, each person traveling to Nice will spend approximately 170 euros (188 USD) per day during their stay.

“What is important to note is that the impact of the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship goes far beyond the race week itself. Many European athletes have either raced IRONMAN 70.3 Nice (2018) on the same courses or have come to recon the courses in the months leading up to race day. In addition, many will return with their families for a vacation later,” adds Stefan Petschnig.

The race visible live

With its blend of old-world opulence, year-round sunshine, and magnificent seaside views, Nice has attracted beach and culture lovers since the 19th century. The city offers fabulous markets, an attractive old town, glorious architecture, and restaurants for all tastes and budgets. With one of France’s largest airports located just minutes from the city, Nice is easily accessible and welcomes 5 million visitors a year.

Both professional races of the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship will be broadcast live on Facebook Watch ” IRONMAN Now“. Millions of fans will therefore have the opportunity to follow the race and admire the beauty of the South of France from their computer or phone.

The course

The start for the 1.9-kilometer Roka swim course will take place at the Quai des États-Unis and will take athletes into the Baie des Anges in the heart of the Mediterranean.
Then, head to the mountains of the Nice hinterland for 90.1 kilometers on a single-loop Ventum bike course. This will be marked by the ascent of the Col de Vence (9.7 km at an average gradient of 6.6%) to reach an altitude of 962 meters.
The 21.2 km Hoka One One run course will be held on the world-renowned Promenade des Anglais for two out-and-back loops before crossing the finish line.

Since 2014, the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship has been rotating. Taupö in New Zealand will host the event in 2020, then Saint-George in Utah will be the host city in 2021. Discussions are underway for a return to Europe in 2022.