Ironman, the global organizer of endurance races, and Rouvy, the indoor cycling app, have announced a new multi-faceted partnership.
The agreement will see Rouvy become the official digital sports platform of the global Ironman and Ironman 70.3 Triathlon Series.
In addition, Rouvy has also acquired FulGaz, the existing virtual cycling platform of the Ironman and Ironman 70.3 Global Series from the Ironman Group.
As part of the deal, Rouvy users will be able to race on Ironman and Ironman 70.3 courses using routes that are recorded on location and enhanced with augmented reality technology.
This includes Ironman 70.3 Mont-Tremblant, Ironman 70.3 Zell Am See-Kaprun, Ironman 70.3 Oregon, and the Ironman 70.3 European Championship in Jönköping, with more courses set to be added throughout the year.
In addition to Ironman, Rouvy will now feature the top 20 FulGaz routes.
Rouvy will be onsite at Ironman and Ironman 70.3 races throughout the season, serving as the naming partner for transition areas.
Scott DeRue, chief executive of the Ironman Group, said: “We are investing in innovation and partnering with leading brands that can help us enrich the athlete experience. Over the last few years, Rouvy has been on the leading edge of revolutionizing the indoor cycling platform, and with their technology and commitment to innovation, we will elevate the athletes’ virtual training experience to an entirely new level.
“Pairing our iconic Ironman and Ironman 70.3 routes with Rouvy’s seamless user experience, immersive technology, and unparalleled data analytics, we will help both novice and experienced triathletes perform at their very best.”
Petr Samek, chief executive of Rouvy, added: “We’re at an especially exciting stage of development, growing organically due to the engaging and high-quality riding experience our platform provides but also, fortunately, in a position to capitalize on pivotal opportunities as and when they arise.
“In our discussions with Ironman about forming a multi-year partnership, it became apparent that FulGaz would be one such opportunity, so we’re delighted to announce the news of this acquisition and the bringing together of two of the best-loved virtual cycling platforms in the world.
“Our collaboration with Ironman marks a significant milestone in making Rouvy the go-to indoor cycling platform for triathletes.”