The inaugural Challenge Shanghai, scheduled for this weekend, October 24 and 25, has been cancelled following a blue typhoon alert issued for the Shanghai region.

In a statement published on the event website, organizers said the decision followed a comprehensive assessment of weather forecasts and venue safety. All competition and official activities scheduled for Saturday and Sunday have been cancelled.

“The safety and well-being of our athletes, staff, and volunteers remain our highest priority.”

Swiss star Alanis Siffert was set to headline the inaugural race. Siffert had been looking to continue her winning momentum after victories at Ironman 70.3 Shanghai, Challenge Roth and the Alpe d’Huez Triathlon.

The event was set to take place on Shanghai’s southern coastline, with athletes swimming in Bainiao Lake, cycling through wetlands and along coastal roads, and running through Haiwan National Forest Park. The weekend’s races included sprint, standard and middle-distance races.

Organizers have confirmed that athletes will receive a full refund of their registration fees, processed automatically to their original payment method over the coming weeks. Travel and accommodation expenses will not be reimbursed. The announcement closes with an invitation to return in 2027, although no new race date was provided.