This year, Vietnam is hosting the VNG Ironman Vietnam full-distance race covering 140.6 miles, alongside the 10th season of the VNG Ironman 70.3 Da Nang.

Competitions are scheduled to begin on May 10, with approximately 1,800 international athletes expected to take part in the event.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday morning, Dao Viet Hai, Deputy Director of Da Nang’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, described the event as an important milestone in the city’s long-term strategy to develop both sports and tourism.

According to Hai, Da Nang is pursuing sustainable growth not only in scale but also in quality, with culture and nature serving as the foundation for authentic experiences for athletes and visitors.

The event will also feature several prominent names in endurance sports, including six-time Ironman world champion Mark Allen, Ironman Hall of Fame member Yee Sze Mun and former Vietnamese swimming star Nguyen Thi Anh Vien.

After nine editions, the event has generated an estimated economic value of US$65 million (VND1.7 trillion). In 2025 alone, the sports week contributed more than US$9 million (VND245 billion) to the local economy.

Organizers believe the event has become one of the most significant international sporting activities hosted by Vietnam, helping strengthen Da Nang’s position as a leading destination for sports tourism in the region.

Nguyen Hien