Whilst he may have retired at the end of last season, former IRONMAN World Champion Sebastian Kienle left behind a legacy that has left a lasting impression on the sport of long course triathlon.

The German fan favourite, who was admired as much by his competitors as he was by the sporting community, called time on his career after IRONMAN Cozumel following his “Discontinued Tour” in 2023.

Having spent time with Kienle during the final year of his glittering career, IRONMAN World Championship third place finisher Braden Currie took to Instagram to praise his former competitor.

“He is a legend of a man”

Discussing the release of a book that touches on Kienle’s story, title “Let Go Now” by René Domke, Currie said he was sad to see Kienle’s career finally come to an end.

“I was lucky enough to spend sometime with @sebastiankienle on his final year of racing ‘discontinued’. We had a lot of laughs and I am gutted that his final year has now come to an end.

“I always thought he was a legend of a sportsman but getting to know him now – I realise he is legend of a man.”

Currie went on to thank Kienle for everything he had done in the sport, with some assurance that whatever comes next is likely to be just as incredible.

“Sebi thanks for everything you have brought to the sport over decades. Enjoy the next part, I’m sure it will be just as epic.”