Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, ADNEC Group, a Modon company, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Challenge Family, has announced the return of Challenge Sir Bani Yas (CSBY) for its second edition, the Middle East’s premier long-distance triathlon. This year, the event will feature an enhanced format and a comprehensive, high-quality experience for athletes, families and supporters alike.
Following its landmark debut earlier in 2025 that drew more than 3,000 athletes of over 40 nationalities, Challenge Sir Bani Yas is back from 31 January to 1 February 2026, and aims to be even better than ever before with the experiences of athletes and spectators refined and elevated, offering bespoke race weekend packages.
To ensure the ultimate comfort and convenience for both participants and visitors, ADNEC Group has introduced a cruise ship accommodation and a cooler, athlete-friendly race window, cementing Challenge Sir Bani Yas 2026’s position as one of the world’s most distinctive and welcoming triathlon destinations.
His Excellency Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said: “Organising the second edition of the Challenge Sir Bani Yas reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a global sporting destination, in line with the vision of our wise leadership. Through this unique sporting event, we aim to empower athletes at both professional and amateur levels, providing them the opportunity to compete in one of the most unique and breathtaking environments on Sir Bani Yas Island. This event also helps to promote a culture of healthy living, strengthens community engagement through sports and reinforces Abu Dhabi as a capital of international sporting events.”
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Group CEO of ADNEC Group, said: “Challenge Sir Bani Yas reflects ADNEC Group’s commitment to advancing Abu Dhabi’s world-class sports sector by organizing major international events within the emirate. The second edition of Challenge Sir Bani Yas is set to welcome leading athletes from around the world, offering them a unique sporting experience that also showcases the Al Dhafra region’s tourism offering. Through initiatives like this, we continue to elevate Abu Dhabi’s global profile, foster community engagement and contribute to the sustainable growth of the sports and tourism sectors.”
Ahead of this year’s pro field announcement, Jort Vlam, CEO of Challenge Family, said: “We are excited to welcome back some of the world’s leading triathletes for the second Challenge Sir Bani Yas. Building on the success of the 2025 edition, we look forward to setting a new standard in long course triathlons. The addition of the cruise ship accommodation and a fully functional race village in 2026 will offer athletes, their families and supporters a truly unique and memorable experience.”
Challenge Sir Bani Yas 2026 will welcome a full festival of racing opportunities across multiple formats, with the Long Distance Triathlon comprising a 3.8 km swim,180 km bike ride and 42.2 km run, Middle Distance Triathlon made up of a 1.9 km swim, 96 km bike ride and 21.1 km run, and Olympic Distance Triathlon of 1.5 km swim, 45 km bike ride and 10 km run.
For the first time, CSBY participants and their families can book an exclusive race-weekend aboard the cruise ship Celestyal Discovery, featuring modern cabins, world-class dining, entertainment and convenient access to the island. The cruise liner will also offer technical experts for race equipment, providing athletes with everything they need on board, ensuring that Challenge Sir Bani Yas will have one of the most inclusive race villages of the season, bringing athletes, friends and families together at a vibrant and welcoming hub. Alternative accommodation options in Al Dhanna City remain expansive. For full accommodation options, visit: www.challenge-sirbaniyas.com/hotel-and-transport/
In celebration of 2026’s Year of Family initiative in the UAE, the Community Races return for CSBY 2026 with inclusive, family-friendly events, including short-course swim races and various cycling and run options, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities. Additionally, the program retains its signature multi-day festival experience, including family-friendly adventure activities such as wildlife safaris, kayaking, snorkeling and cultural tours, alongside a vibrant Fan Village for all-day entertainment and support.
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