Currents in the fjord, headwinds on parts of the course and a dramatic marathon ensured that the women's race remained wide open. In the end, Nikola Čorbová of Slovakia claimed the victory after a day marked by major changes at the front of the field.

Currents in the fjord, headwinds on parts of the bike course and strong competition at the front ensured that Norseman 2026 was no easy race. In the end, Kristian Grue proved strongest, defending his title after a long battle with former Olympic champion Alistair Brownlee.

Calm waters greeted the athletes in Eidfjord, but swim times suggest a challenging current beneath the surface. Three hours into the race, Alistair Brownlee and Kristian Grue have opened a significant gap in the men's field, while the women's race remains wide open.

After three decades in triathlon, including 18 years as a professional athlete competing at the highest level, the Brit arrives in Eidfjord this week with a very different goal. On Saturday, Brownlee will stand on the start line of Norseman Xtreme Triathlon for the first time, ready to take on a race he has wanted to do for many years.