One of triathlon’s most innovative organizations, supertri, have just announced a new team franchise model for the 2024 season, as they move away from league-owned teams.
Looking to develop the teams into distinctive brands, supertri also revealed that the supertri League 2024 will feature four teams, with each one consisting of four men and four women.
Four-time triathlon World Champion Tim Don, a supertri stalwart, has been unveiled as the team manager of the first franchise, called Podium Racing.
“Amplifying the triathlon experience”
After rebranding from Super League Triathlon to supertri earlier this season, the changes to the team model come after the full supertri League schedule was announced last month.
In 2024, the supertri League will consist of five races, across three continents, beginning in Boston on August 18. The full schedule is as follows:
- August 18: supertri Boston
- August 25: supertri Chicago
- September 8: supertri London
- October 6: supertri Toulouse
- November 3: supertri NEOM
Alongside the new race locations in Boston and Chicago, the changes to the team model will see four teams or franchises compete against each other for a prize pot of $1.1 million, as outlined in the organizations statement released earlier this week.
“supertri’s new initiative is a strategic move designed to enhance the league’s resonance with fans and participants worldwide, amplifying the triathlon experience to unprecedented levels.
“The four teams of four men and four women will compete in supertri’s League, […]. All teams must include an under-23 athlete in line with supertri’s commitment to developing the future of triathlon, and the teams will compete for a prize pot of $1.1m, which sits outside of individual prize money.”
Another step in growing the sport
Explaining the decision behind their move to a franchise based model, supertri CEO and Co-Founder Michael D’hulst emphasized that it is all about continuing to grow the sport.
“Franchise-owned teams are pivotal in democratising triathlon, creating wider fan accessibility and igniting passion among a diverse audience.
“Unlike the conventional approach, for us, it is not merely a fundraising tool; it’s an invitation for entrepreneurs to leave their mark on the future of triathlon and shape the narrative.
“Our franchises aren’t just assets; they’re catalysts for the sport’s growth and the first touch point for fans. Our team owners are more than stakeholders; they’re partners in passion, amplifying the sport’s essence.”
“Through franchise ownership, supertri’s landscape shifts, empowering teams to craft unique identities and forge personal connections with supporters. This strategy broadens supertri’s appeal and embeds its roots deeper within the triathlon community.”
Podium Racing acquires first franchise
A group of investors led by Podium Racing have acquired the first of the four franchises, with Podium racing founder John Anthony partnering with Tim Don, who is both a founding partner and team manager.
On the decision to invest in a franchise, Anthony underlined that it was a great avenue for his company and an “extremely valuable investment”.
“We’re excited to be partnering with supertri as another avenue for Podium Racing to evolve our sport. I’ve seen first hand how supertri has already done incredible things for triathlon.
“I am very excited to be working with Tim Don, a legend of the sport and already a successful supertri Team Manager.
“Winning two out of the last three supertri seasons, Tim and I immediately aligned on our goals of creating a winning team.
“This is about assembling great athletes who want to operate as a team and stand on the top step of the podium.”
