Share the post "Embrunman 2026: Niek Heldoorn and Saleta Castro Nogueira Take the Win"
This Saturday, August 15, the 2026 Embrunman once again lived up to its reputation as one of the most demanding long-distance triathlons in the world. After a 3.8-km swim, a 180-km bike ride with over 5,000 m of elevation gain, and a marathon, Niek Heldoorn of the Netherlands and Saleta Castro Nogueira of Spain claimed victory.
Source: Press Release – Photos: © Activ'images
In the men’s race, Niek Heldoorn quickly took the lead on the bike leg. The Dutch athlete established himself at the front on the alpine course before facing a particularly difficult stretch during the marathon.
Despite a significant setback on the run, Heldoorn managed to regroup and maintain his lead all the way to the finish line. He ultimately won in 8 h 59 min 46 s, 1 min 18 s ahead of Spain’s Jordi Montraveta, who had already finished third in the 2025 edition. Frenchman Clément Grandy rounded out the podium in 9:03:52.
“It was hot on the Izoard—it was really tough.My legs were already hurting, and I knew it was going to be a very long day, but I found my legs again. I thought it was all over; I was really afraid I wouldn’t win, but I’m glad it worked out,” said Niek Heldoorn at the finish.
In the women’s race, the competition quickly boiled down to a duel between Saleta Castro Nogueira and American Marni Sumbal, before the Spaniard pulled ahead on the climb up the legendary Col de l’Izoard.
Castro Nogueira then paced herself perfectly to maintain the lead through the marathon and cross the finish line in 12:03:11. Behind her, Belgian Marine Moulin snatched second place at the wire, finishing just 21 seconds ahead of Marni Sumbal.
“I really enjoyed it; it was a great triathlon, and I’m very happy. This race is truly special—it’s very important in the world of triathlon—and now my name is on the list of winners,” said Saleta Castro Nogueira.
A Course That’s as Demanding as Ever
The Embrunman lives up to its reputation with a particularly demanding XXL format: a 3.8-km swim, a 180-km bike ride, and a 42.195-km run.
However, it is the cycling segment that poses one of the race’s greatest challenges. Competitors must tackle over 5,000 m of elevation gain, including the climb up the Col de l’Izoard, before finishing with a marathon. A course as spectacular as it is grueling, making the Embrunman one of the must-attend events in long-distance triathlon.
Men’s Results
Niek Heldoorn – 8:59:46
Jordi Montraveta – 9:01:04
Clément Grandy – 9:03:52
Women’s Standings
Saleta Castro Nogueira – 12:03:11
Marine Moulin – 12:28:04
Marni Sumbal – 12:28:25
Full results available HERE.
Share the post "Embrunman 2026: Niek Heldoorn and Saleta Castro Nogueira Take the Win"
