Here are the most important new rules for Ironman and triathlon races from 2025:

1. Drafting penalties and slipstream zone

The penalties for violations of the drafting ban have been reduced:
- Long distance: 3 minutes (previously 5 minutes)
- Middle distance: 2 minutes (previously 5 minutes)
- Olympic distance: 1 minute (previously 2 minutes)
- Sprint distance: 30 seconds (previously 1 minute)

The slipstream zone has been standardized to 12 meters and overtaking must be completed within 25 seconds.

2. Prohibition of aerodynamic items

It is no longer permitted to carry water bottles or other items in the racing suit that could improve aerodynamics.

3. There are limitations on the transport of beverage bottles

Front-mounted drinking systems may have a maximum capacity of 2 liters. There is no limit to the number of bottles. This means that 4 bottle holders with 4 bottles of 500ml each could still be transported, or three bottles of 500ml and two others of 750ml each. Bottle holders mounted on the saddle are clearly limited to two. The two bottles may not exceed a maximum volume of 1 liter per bottle. This means that in the future it will no longer be possible to transport three bottles behind the saddle. Bottles or liquids in the frame or frame triangle are not affected.

4. Length of the extension is limited

From now on, the aerobars must not protrude beyond the front wheel so that the handling of the bike is not impaired.

5. Clothing regulations

Elite athletes are now allowed to wear uniforms with elbow-length sleeves. Long fingernails and jewelry are prohibited in elite races; watches can only be worn with the permission of the chief referee.

6. Water quality when swimming

The limits for enterococci and E. coli have been relaxed from "excellent" to "good". Decisions about cancelling swimming due to water quality are now made by a panel.

7. Introduction of a new transgender category

There is a new open age group category for transgender athletes to ensure a fair playing field.

8. Further changes

Mixed relay teams now follow the order woman-man-woman-man. Sprint races receive the same number of ranking points as longer distances. Athlete briefings will now take place at 4 p.m. the day before the race.

These changes aim to promote fairness, safety and uniformity in competitions.

All regulations HERE