Fighting Spirit, World Championship & New Goals in 2026

Strong summer and an unexpected setback

Everything went according to plan until August. At the triathlon in Pöttsching, Alex had a successful season start with the victory in his age group. A few weeks later, the 70.3 Zell am See was on the schedule – with perfect external conditions, but with unexpected consequences.

Unnoticed, Alex started with an infection. Breathing problems already during the swim, a tough half marathon, and in the end a disappointing time of 5:05:27 hours and 9th place in the age group for him. “Of course, I expected more – all the more surprising was the World Championship slot for 2026”, says Alex.

After the competition, a short illness-related break followed. However, in October, a strong sporting comeback was achieved at the Royal Parks Half Marathon in London, which Alex completed together with the Variotherm Sports Team. With 1:28:48 hours, he showed himself to be in very good shape again.

Marbella: An Unforgettable Finale

On November 9th, it finally happened. Highly motivated, Alex started at the 70.3 World Championship in Marbella. After 35:18 minutes in the water and an extremely challenging bike course with 1.840 meters of elevation, the training deficit became noticeable. The half marathon was also made more difficult by a cramp.

With a total time of 5:22:54 hours, Alex reached the finish line exhausted but satisfied.

Looking Ahead: Season 2026

The focus for 2026 is clear: the 70.3 Ironman World Championship in Nice in September. As an important preparation test, the 70.3 Alghero is planned for June, complemented by selected short-distance races. 

The goal remains to start the next World Championship season healthy and optimally prepared.