Ironman Wales 2020 triathlon cancelled due to coronavirus outbreak

The Ironman Wales triathlon has been cancelled due to coronavirus.

The annual sporting event, which takes place in Pembrokeshire, was due to happen on September 6th.

The leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, David Simpson, said he was "deeply disappointed" but fully supported the decision, based on Covid-19 restrictions.

He added: “The event has become a much loved annual fixture in the Pembrokeshire calendar.

“However, there is no doubt that this is the correct decision and the Council fully supports the postponement due to Covid-19 restrictions.

“The health and safety of the spectators and those taking part must take the utmost priority."

The Ironman triathlons happen all over the world each year, including this event in South Africa Credit: PA

The next Ironman Wales is due to be held on 12th September 2021.

The race organisers said they understood the decision "may come as a disappointment", but described the health and safety of its community as "an utmost priority."

In a statement, the Ironman organisers added: "In what has been a continually evolving and challenging time globally, we recognize that this decision due to the above-mentioned unforeseen events may come as a disappointment.

"While we are prevented from holding the event on the original date, we are looking forward to providing athletes with an exceptional race experience at IRONMAN Wales in 2021."