From Anfield to Roth: Liverpool legend John Arne Riise to compete at DATEV Challenge Roth in 2027
Norway’s record international takes on his first long-distance triathlon / Roth set to be the stage for a new chapter in sport
From the football stadium to the long-distance triathlon: John Arne Riise will line up at DATEV Challenge Roth on 4 July 2027, competing in his first triathlon over a 3.8km swim, 180km bike and 42.2km run. The Norwegian holds the record for the most international caps for his country with 110 appearances and won the UEFA Champions League with Liverpool FC in 2005.
“I’ve registered and will be competing in my first long-distance triathlon at DATEV Challenge Roth on 4 July 2027. I’m really looking forward to taking part in this legendary race with all the fans,” said Riise in his announcement regarding his participation in Roth.
From Champions League winner to triathlete
The 46-year-old is one of Norway’s best-known footballers. Between 2001 and 2008, Riise played for Liverpool FC, making more than 300 appearances for the historic English club. With Liverpool, he won, amongst other honours, the UEFA Champions League in 2005, the UEFA Super Cup twice and the FA Cup once. His subsequent career took him to clubs including AS Monaco, AS Roma and Fulham FC. Riise made a total of 110 appearances for the Norwegian national team, more than any other player before him.
He has chosen Roth as the venue for his first attempt at the 3.8km swim, 180km bike and 42.2km run. DATEV Challenge Roth is the world’s largest long-distance triathlon and is renowned for its special atmosphere along the entire course. Around 7,500 volunteers and countless spectators create a unique atmosphere every year, from the swim start on the Main-Danube Canal, over the Solarer Berg, to the finish line at the Triathlon Stadium.
“I’m really excited to be taking part in this iconic event with all the fans,” said Riise. “Now it’s time to get to work. See you on 4 July!”
Felix Walchshöfer is delighted that the Norwegian is taking part: “John Arne Riise has already experienced a lot in football. Now, with his first long-distance race, a completely new challenge awaits him. We’re delighted that he’s coming to Roth for this. We’re keen to see how he’ll cope with the distance and, above all, experience the very special atmosphere along the course. I’m sure he won’t forget 4 July 2027 in a hurry.”
A special connection to Roth
There’s already a connection between Riise and Roth: At Liverpool, John Arne Riise wore the number 18, taking it over from Erik Meijer, who had previously played for the “Reds”. Meijer completed his first long-distance race at DATEV Challenge Roth in 2021, crossing the finish line in 11:03:32 hours. Now Riise is following in the footsteps of his Liverpool predecessor on the Roth course.