Start Lists Drop for Ironman New Zealand as 2026 Pro Series Kicks Off
2025 Ironman Pro Series winners Kat Matthews and Kristian Blummenfelt set to headline deep fields
The opening chapter of the 2026 Ironman Pro Series will unfold on March 7th in Taupō, New Zealand – and, while early-season races often carry a “rust-buster” reputation, this one comes loaded with strategic consequence.
Ironman New Zealand isn’t just a season opener; it’s the first opportunity for athletes to bank valuable points in a series that rewards consistency. Secure an early win (or podium) in Taupō, and the pressure of full-distance racing eases dramatically, leaving athletes needing just one additional Ironman result before the Ironman World Championship in Kona.
In other words, this is not a warm-up race. It is a chess move.
2025 Pro Series Champions Headline Deep Fields
Both reigning Ironman Pro Series champions are set to toe the line.
On the men’s side, the clear favourite is Kristian Blummenfelt, though this time without longtime Norwegian training partners Gustav Iden and Casper Stornes, with rumours circulating around possible injuries. Blummenfelt will face defending Taupō champion Mike Phillips, alongside a strong international contingent that includes Trevor Foley and Matt Hanson travelling over from the United States.
The women’s race is similarly stacked, led by series champion Kat Matthews, who will line up against defending winner Regan Hollioake, plus a deep field featuring Hannah Berry, Jocelyn McCauley, Steph Clutterbuck, Fenella Langridge, and Tamara Jewett.
When the gun goes off in Taupō on March 7th, the 2026 Ironman Pro Series officially begins.