The running course will be given a facelift in 2025, but will remain in line with its reputation as a very challenging course. However, the change to the track may not be the most significant change to the 19th edition. The public and triathletes will soon find out.
Byebye “altiport”!
The Alpe d’Huez altiport is no more! Loved by some, hated by many, the descent down the famous airfield slope with its surprising gradient left no one indifferent. Over three editions (2022-23-24), this straight line will have left its mark on memories as well as quadriceps. However, the technical constraints associated with the operation of this sensitive area and the development of the race are no longer compatible. This marks the end of an unforgettable chapter for the organisation and the Alpe d’Huez Triathlon community.
The new running circuit: back to basics… or almost
Instead of using the altiport, triathletes will now continue on the road, making a long, gradual descent to the area called Les Bergers, as before! However, road improvements made in recent years mean that it is now possible to pass under the new tunnel planned for skiers in winter, which is a very practical solution. This is a minor change that does not present any technical difficulties. There is one small consequence, however (which will no doubt seem much less trivial to participants on the day of the race): the total distance of the loop will be reduced from 6.5km to 6.4km (apologies to the minority who ask for the Ironman format to be adapted every year… we’re still a long way off!).
The running course will also have its FAN ZONE
Following the success of the first FAN ZONE set up in the 21st bend in 2024 (in the village of Huez after the Dutch bend), it became clear that the same setup was essential for the new running circuit! This year, spectators will therefore have two areas where they can cheer on the participants together. Music, goodies, entertainment… it’s all about creating a moment of communion between the triathletes and the public.
The FAN ZONE RUN will be located a few metres from the T2 bike park, right at the base of the free Alpe Express cable cars, and this is no coincidence. Alpe Express will take you directly to Huez to join the FAN ZONE OVERSTIM.S on the climb. Spectators will have time to cheer on a triathlete during the climb up Alpe d’Huez and then head to the FAN ZONE RUN to watch them pass by (there and back) during the running segment. Two FAN ZONES, twice the excitement.
A few words from the race director, Cyrille Neveu :
“It’s not ideal, let’s be honest. We would like to maintain on a long term our running course. But the resort is evolving, the race is growing, circumstances are changing, and we have always managed to find the right solutions. From this point of view, I would really like to thank the town hall and the technical services of Alpe d’Huez for their help and for exploring all the possible alternatives with us. As organisers, we know how lucky we are to be able to take advantage of the resort’s extensive logistics ressources.”