Former IRONMAN World Championship runner-up Lionel Sanders has made his intentions clear for the 2024 season, with the Canadian saying that this year is “do or die” for his triathlon career.

The PTO World #32, who endured a rollercoaster season in 2023, has already committed to the IRONMAN Pro Series and in a video recapping last season, appeared more ready than ever for what’s next.

With a blockbuster racing calendar on the horizon, the “No Limits” star has certainly come out swinging with a motivating statement of intent, as he committed to continuing his journey to the top.

“I am crazy motivated”

Despite picking up five middle distance podiums in 2023, Sanders was not content with his achievements last year, something that he says has added more fuel to the fire for 2024.

“I am now crazy motivated. I am more motivated than I have ever been right now. It’s do or die, back against the wall, I’m the coach, I’m in charge and you’re going to see this season my coaching on display.”

Holding himself accountable for whatever successes or failures come this season, Sanders says part of what motivates him the most whilst being self-coached is the opportunity to prove that he has what it takes to coach at the top level when he retires.

“What do I want to do when this is all said and done? I want to be a professional coach, coaching professional athletes who want to win the world championship. This is me proving that I understand what I’m doing.” 

With his first race of the season set to be IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside in April, which is the first race of the IRONMAN Pro Series, Sanders has fuelled the anticipation and expectations of his fans early as the excitement for the 2024 season builds.