Leeds Ironman cancels swim leg due to algae concerns
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 15, 2026, 8:45 AM
Last updated Aug 15, 2026

The swim leg of the Ironman Leeds triathlon set for Sunday has been canceled due to high levels of blue-green algae in Waterloo Lake, which were found to be significantly above safe thresholds. Organizers stated the conditions were a result of recent hot weather across the UK. The event will proceed with a bike-run format, featuring a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile run instead. Athletes have been informed of changes to the race structure, with the race starting from transition with a rolling TT bike start at 07:00 BST. Road closures will remain in place for the cycling and running sections of the event.
- •Swim leg canceled due to blue-green algae in Waterloo Lake.
- •Event will proceed as a bike-run competition.
- •Race starts at 07:00 BST from transition.
- •Road closures in effect for cycling and running segments.
- •Organizers committed to ensuring a safe race day.
- 8:45 AMYahoo Sports — Leeds Ironman cancels swim over safety concerns
"Algae levels in Waterloo Lake are "significantly above the threshold" for swimming, organisers say.
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