Lionel Sanders says he is not retiring: “Kona has won me over again”

Lionel Sanders, the Canadian triathlete known for his tenacity and tireless mentality, has made it clear that his triathlon career is not over.

Despite a result in Kona that fell short of his own expectations, Sanders has announced plans to return to the Big Island in 2026 and compete at next year’s Men’s World Championships in Nice.

In a video published after the World Championship Ironman In Kona—where he finished 32nd with a time of 8:22:06—Sanders made it clear that he is not retiring: “Kona has conquered me again. I have not conquered Kona,” he commented with a touch of humor.

“I haven’t felt the suffering that I normally experience, which is positive. I don’t know if I have the ability to be an Ironman athlete, but I am determined to explore my limits at this distance. Do I think I have more to give? I'm sure I do. I'm not comparing myself to others, I just want to feel like I'm giving my best."

Sanders acknowledged that his “abilities” might not be at the level needed for an Ironman, but that doesn’t discourage him.

He expressed his desire to improve and continue to discover himself, which is driving him to plan his return to Kona in 2026. He also intends to compete in Nice, saying: “I know I can't master the bike, and that's part of what motivates me.

I want to go, learn the route, camp, try new things with Canyon. Maybe Clement Mignon (the French professional triathlete living in Nice) can help me improve my downhill skills."

Despite his focus on the Full Ironman distance, Sanders also acknowledges that he remains competitive at the 70.3 distance: “At 70.3, the race is wide open. At the IRONMAN, I'm focused on myself. I need to conquer it internally first.".

Sanders has confirmed, however, that he will not be present at the Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Taupo, New Zealand: “I'll do another 70.3, most likely in Indian Wells. I've spent all my money on the trip to Kona and can't afford to go to New Zealand.

I'm really excited for Marbella in 2025, hosting next year's Ironman 70.3 World Championship. "