ITU is pleased to announce that it has concluded a multiple year global agreement with ASICS for them to become a Global Development Partner of ITU. The contract took effect March 1, 2018.

This contract was made possible by ITU’s confidence in ASICS’ strong commitment to promote and develop triathlon globally. ITU has created a global development programme setting out the goals that will impact all areas of the sport around the world over the coming years. The ITU 2018-2021 strategic plan takes a step forward with the new global partnership with ASICS, which provides essential support to the ITU development programme both financially and in terms of sporting equipment.

Among the programme’s key areas of focus are greater empowerment of national federations, helping them to achieve their goals with greater self-sufficiency, and assisting new and emerging federations to establish themselves on the world stage.

“ITU is delighted to welcome ASICS as the new naming global partner in triathlon development as we continue to grow our sport around the world across the Tokyo 2020 Olympic cycle and beyond,” said ITU President and IOC Member Marisol Casado. “The comprehensive 2018-2021 strategic development plan is designed to maintain the current upward trajectory of the sport of triathlon and this partnership allows us to reach further than ever in that quest.”

“We are thrilled to be able to support the ITU as a Global Development Partner.” said Motoi Oyama, Chairman, President & CEO of ASICS Corporation. “We at ASICS are committed to improving lives through sport by helping athletes around the world get moving and feel the benefits of being stronger, happier and sharper everyday.”

In regions where triathlon has yet to establish itself, ITU is making concerted efforts to strengthen the national federations, provide strategic leadership and promote the sport at all levels. In the areas where triathlon is already strong, ITU will consolidate existing programmes and ensure that everything necessary is in place to allow the national federations to continue unearthing new talent and providing the conditions and performance equipment for them to thrive.

Building on that solid foundation, competition bidding and hosting, the development of new talent as well as coaching, performance, technical and administrative personnel and systems can all flourish under the global leadership of ITU.