With just days to go until the highly anticipated Challenge Barcelona 2025, excitement is building as the event prepares to welcome 2,600 athletes to the start line for its race weekend, including the first-ever middle-distance race. The race brings world-class racing to the heart of one of the most iconic cities in the world.
The event has attracted nearly 70 professional athletes, featuring some of the sport’s biggest names and rising stars, ensuring a strong competition across both men’s and women’s races.
Leading the men’s field is Michele Bortolamedi (ITA), who finished second at last year’s Challenge Barcelona in his debut professional season and has since established himself as one of the most promising new talents on the circuit. He’ll be joined by Leonard Arnold (GER), the reigning Challenge Sanremo champion, and Jamie Riddle (RSA), who will make his Challenge Family debut and is tipped to be a strong contender for the win. Other notable names include Jack Hutchens (GBR), Bart Aernouts (BEL), and Ruben Zepuntke (GER), ensuring a competitive and international men’s field.
In the women’s race, Kaidi Kivioja (EST) comes in with strong momentum after a win earlier this season and will be aiming for another podium finish in Barcelona. She will be challenged by Cathia Schär (SUI), who made headlines with her stunning victory at Challenge Peguera-Mallorca on her very first middle distance race just last week. Marta Bernardo (ITA), who placed fifth at Challenge Peguera-Mallorca, will also be on the start line and looking to build on her recent form. The field is rounded out by a strong group including Alexia Bailey (GBR), Sophia Green (GBR), and Sarah Schönfelder (GER) — all ready to make their mark on the fast and scenic Barcelona course.
This year marks a milestone for Challenge Barcelona as it hosts its first middle-distance race, providing athletes with a world-class experience through the streets and coastline of the Catalan capital. With the Sagrada Família as a backdrop on the bike course and the Mediterranean Sea along the run, competitors and spectators alike can expect an unforgettable race atmosphere.
The weekend will also feature a buzzing TRIEXPO at CEM de la Mar Bella, showcasing leading triathlon brands and attracting thousands of visitors across the event days — making it the social hub of the competition.
The professional athletes start at 8:00 a.m. local time on 26 October, with live updates and live timing available at www.challenge-family.live.
There is also a live stream with Catalan commentary at https://www.youtube.com/live/z-KM7zjh0E4.
For full event information, visit www.triathlon.barcelona.com.
The entire professional start list can be found here.
