Over the last few years Spain’s outsized influence on World Triathlon scene has never been more apparent. Since 2008 Marisol Casado has led World Triathlon, becoming just the second president of the organization. Today yet another Spaniard has been elected to the position Antonio Fernandez Arimany, which means two of the three presidents the organization have had are from Spain.
Their presidency is a sign of the popularity of the sport in Spain, which has bought in whole-heartedly to the sport and the opportunities of hosting major World Triathlon events. Just look at the last two years and the two coming up:
In 2023 Spain hosted three major World Triathlon events – the World Triathlon Multisport Championships Ibiza (that included duathlon, cross-triathlon, aquathlon, long-distance and aqua bike world championships), the Europe Triathlon Championships Madrid and the World Triathlon Championship Finals Pontevedra. This year the World Triathlon Championship Finals took place in Torremolinos, Spain. Next year the Multisport worlds will take place in Pontevedra, with the World Triathlon Championship Finals returning to Pontevedra in 2026.
Endorsements
Having served as the Secretary General since 2016, Arimany was one of the front-runners in the election process for president, and was endorsed not only by the Spanish Federation, but by two other men who had put their names forward to run – Japan’s Shin Otsuka and Mexico’s Antonio Alvarez.
“I am truly honoured to accept this responsibility and to lead our beloved sport into a new era,” Ariminy said. “This is an exciting time for triathlon, and I am ready to embrace the challenges ahead. Together, we will work to elevate triathlon to the next level, ensuring that our athletes, coaches, and communities have the support they need to thrive.”
“I promise to make the changes needed to make this organisation even greater,” he continued. “It is essential that we work together with National Federations, Continental Confederations, and all members of the triathlon community. By fostering strong partnerships, we can continue the great governance of our organisation and establish new horizons for the sport. Together, we will create an environment where everyone can succeed and where the spirit of triathlon flourishes.”
Vice Presidents and board positions
Gabriela Gallegos (USA), Shin Otsuka (JPN), Antonio Alvarez (MEX) and Debbie Alexander (RSA) were elected vice presidents.
The remaining four board positions went to:
Leslie Buchanan (CAN), Bernard Saint-Jean (FRA), Caterina Vacchi (ITA) and Marco Antonio La Porta (BRA).