Making his debut at the age of 40 - Matt Hanson starts in Roth for the first time
‘Would like to feel the energy during the race’
The DATEV Challenge Roth team is delighted to announce that top US triathlete Matt Hanson is competing in this year's race on 6 July 2025.
Already experienced the atmosphere as a spectator
At DATEV Challenge Roth 2025, the eight-time Ironman winner will compete for the first time on the legendary course in Franconia and measure himself against the world's elite. ‘Challenge Roth is a race that I have wanted to compete in since the beginning of my career. I've already been there as a spectator and was able to experience the incredible atmosphere up close. I can't wait to feel all that energy during the race in July!’ says Hanson.
Eight victories in Ironman races
The 39-year-old, who celebrates his 40th birthday in May, led the newly created Ironman Pro Series for much of last season. After his appearance at Ironman Frankfurt 2024, this will be Hanson's second race in Germany. At the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii, he stormed to 10th place as the second-best US American and won a total of six races over the full Ironman distance, including three times at Ironman Texas. Hanson has also won two Ironman 70.3 races, most recently last year at Ironman 70.3 Chattanooga.
With his experience, he can certainly play a role among the front runners. However, he will have to fend off strong competition. For example, last year's runner-up Tom Bishop, Jan Stratmann and the Dutch record athlete Menno Koolhaas will be on the start line with him. TEAMCHALLENGE will announce the other pros in the coming days and weeks.