Alghero Set for Triathlon Showcase as WTCS Returns to Sardinia
In the world of elite triathlon, attention turns to the sun-kissed Italian city of Alghero, as the World Triathlon Championship Series (WTCS) sets the stage for its latest spectacle. This year’s event, taking place on 31st May, promises a thrilling blend of established stars and rising talents, all vying for glory on the stunning Sardinian coast.
Last Year’s Champion Returns
Cassandre Beaugrand, the French sensation who kicked off her journey to world and Olympic glory in Sardinia last year, is back to defend her title. Her triumphant 2024 season in Cagliari catapulted her into the spotlight, and with an impressive podium streak since then, she’s a formidable force to reckon with.
Season Opener Winner in the Spotlight
Lisa Tertsch, who conquered the competition at the season’s first WTCS event in Abu Dhabi, is another athlete catching the eye. With a pare of solid performances under her belt, the German ace is keen to build on her early-season momentum and could well be the one to watch in Alghero.
The Field is Set
Beaugrand won’t find it easy to retain her crown, however, with a deep and talented field lining up alongside her. Her French teammate and WTCS race winner Leonie Periault is primed for a podium challenge, having consistently medalled in the series since 2021. The British duo of Beth Potter and Olivia Mathias will also be pushing for top spots, with Mathias particularly eager to showcase her improved running prowess after a successful off-season.
The Germans have fielded a formidable squad, with Michelle Mehnert, Nina Eim, Laura Lindemann, Annika Koch, Tanja Neubert, Selina Klamt, and Anabel Knoll all chasing points. The Italian team is eager to impress on home turf, with Bianca Seregni, Ilaria Zane, Verena Steinhauser, and Alice Betto all capable of challenging for the podium.
Notable Absentees
While the start list boasts a wealth of talent, there are a few noticeable absentees. Olympic medallists Julie Derron and Georgia Taylor-Brown won’t be racing, nor will high-ranking stars like Taylor Spivey, Kate Waugh, and Rachel Klamer. Emma Lombardi, who played a pivotal role in last year’s dramatic final kilometre in Cagliari, will also be missing.
Storylines to Watch
- Beaugrand vs. Potter: The past two world champions have had an intriguing dynamic in Sardinia, always finishing the same number of places apart. Can Potter finally get one over her great rival in Alghero?
- Olivia Mathias’ Running Prowess: After logging impressive times over 5km and 10km this off-season, all eyes will be on the British athlete to see if she can translate her newfound speed into a strong WTCS performance.
- Kingma and Kropkó Reunited: Maya Kingma and Márta Kropkó could team up again and potentially dictate the race. Can they repeat their Karlovy Vary heroics?
- The Veterans’ Chance: Miriam Casillas Garcia and Jeanne Lehair, both with experience and previous top-5 finishes in Cagliari, have the potential to upset the odds and claim a podium spot.
Catch All the Action
Follow all the exciting developments leading up to the WTCS Alghero on the official World Triathlon channels. The racing will be live-streamed on TriathlonLive on 31st May. View the full women’s start list here.
FAQ
Q: Who are the favourites to win in Alghero?
A: Cassandre Beaugrand and Lisa Tertsch, the 2024 and 2025 Abu Dhabi WTCS winners respectively, are among the favourites. However, the deep field and unpredictable nature of triathlon mean that any of the top 15-20 athletes could potentially secure a podium spot.
Q: What about the men’s race?
A: While this article focuses on the women’s field, the men’s WTCS Alghero promises exciting action as well. Keep an eye out for updates and previews covering that side of the event.
Don’t miss out on the thrilling action as the world’s best triathletes descend on Alghero, Italy, for the latest installment of the World Triathlon Championship Series. Who will be the next star to emerge in Sardinia, following in the footsteps of Cassandre Beaugrand from last year? Tune in and find out!