Lionel Sanders is back.
For the first time since the spring, when he won Oceanside and St. George in an undefeated start to his season, the Canadian will step onto a start line this Sunday, December 7th, at Ironman 70.3 La Quinta. This will set up another fan-favourite showdown with American rival Sam Long, a matchup that triathlon fans never tire of.
As Sanders shared on Instagram, “The last 6 months have been extremely difficult but the fitness is improving and I’m finally feeling ready to race. Obviously the last couple weeks haven’t been ideal with the glute but things are improving each day so I’m looking forward to toeing the line on Sunday… Very grateful to all my sponsors for sticking by me this year.”
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What Fans Can Expect
If there’s one thing we know, it’s that Sanders never races halfway. His “no limits” mantra isn’t marketing – it’s how he shows up, every time. He also tends not to race just to participate; when he toes the line, it’s usually because he believes he can fight for “the W.”
Layer onto that his long-standing rivalry with Long. The pair have produced some of triathlon’s most entertaining battles in recent years – part rivalry, part friendship, always fierce.
This time, though, the variables are different. Sanders has been candid about the challenges he’s faced this year, and where his form truly sits remains an open question, particularly on the run. What’s clear, however, is that his heart isn’t done, and his sights are already set on a strong 2026.
Indian Wells may be the first step in that return, and fans will be watching every moment.
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