The 2025 Europe Triathlon Sprint and Relay Championships in Melilla brought intense racing, high temperatures, and standout performances across all categories. Athletes competed under wetsuit-forbidden conditions, with air temperatures soaring above 30°C in many races. From elite to junior, individual to relay, Europe’s best showed grit and class on a blistering weekend of triathlon action.
Italian and Belgian triumphs in the elite races
Italy’s Alessio Crociani claimed the elite men’s title with a time of 00:51:58, building his win on a fast swim and consistent effort throughout. Israel’s Shachar Sagiv followed just six seconds behind, while Norway’s Sebastian Wernersen took third.
In the elite women’s race, Jolien Vermeylen of Belgium showed experience and strength to take gold in 00:57:32, just ahead of Italy’s Bianca Seregni. Franka Rust of Germany secured bronze — and more than that, a double podium (U23 and elite) on the same day.
U23 titles go to Wernersen and Rust
Sebastian Wernersen wasn’t done with one podium — his time of 00:52:19 earned him not only elite bronze but also U23 gold. Jules Rethoret (FRA) and Euan De Nigro (ITA) completed a strong U23 men’s podium, finishing within 15 seconds of each other.
In the U23 women’s field, Franka Rust’s elite performance also made her U23 champion. Zuzana Michalickova (SVK) and Candice Denizot (FRA) rounded out the top three with consistent and confident racing.
Juniors shine under pressure
Germany’s Kjell Arved Brandt topped the junior men’s race with a winning time of 00:54:50, just ahead of Achille Besson (FRA) and Brandon Pye (GBR). All three athletes raced in over 33°C heat and delivered some of the fastest bike and run splits of the day.
In the junior women’s event, Ambre Grasset (FRA) edged out Hungary’s Fanni Szalai and Switzerland’s Anouk Danna in a race where the top three finished within 11 seconds. Grasset's strength across all three segments sealed her victory in 00:59:37.
France and Italy lead in the relays
Team France took top honors in the Mixed Junior Relay, winning with a time of 01:36:08 ahead of Germany and Great Britain. Their consistent performance across all four legs made the difference in a tight race.
In the elite/U23 Mixed Relay, Team Italy delivered an impressive win in 01:34:06, just seconds ahead of the Netherlands and Hungary. With smart pacing and tight transitions, the Italian squad capped off a dominant weekend for the nation.
Melilla set the stage for champions and future stars alike, offering a glimpse into the depth of talent across Europe. From breakout junior performances to tactical elite showdowns and thrilling team relays, the 2025 Europe Triathlon Sprint and Relay Championships confirmed the continent’s status as a powerhouse in the sport.