British triathlete Max Stapley first learned of World Triathlon’s partnership with Hyrox via Instagram, sparking outrage among athletes. The agreement makes Hyrox a recognized discipline under World Triathlon, opening a path toward Olympic inclusion—potentially at the expense of traditional triathlon. Athletes like Stapley and Sophie Evans feel blindsided, criticizing the lack of consultation.
World Triathlon insists athlete representatives were involved in the decision and that the partnership aims to benefit the entire multisport movement. However, European champion Roksana Slupek and others question the actual benefits for triathlon, with Stapley calling it an "attack on our whole existence." Concerns grow that resources and sponsorships may shift toward Hyrox, which lacks swimming and biking—core elements of triathlon. With LA 2028 already secured for triathlon, athletes worry about long-term Olympic relevance.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing