CHICAGO, IL — The 2025 HYROX World Championship officially kicked off on June 12 at Chicago’s Navy Pier, marking a significant moment in the global fitness racing calendar. Spanning four days, from June 12 to June 15, the event brings together over 10,000 athletes and fans from around the world, highlighting the sport’s rapid growth and international appeal.
A Return to U.S. Soil
This year’s championship marks HYROX’s return to the United States for the first time since 2022, when the event was held in Las Vegas. Chicago, serving as HYROX’s U.S. operational base, was selected to host the 2024/25 season finale, reflecting the sport’s expanding footprint in North America. Co-founder Moritz Fürste expressed enthusiasm about the location, stating, “We are thrilled to bring the World Championships back to the U.S. and announce Chicago as the host city for the 2024/25 season. Chicago is our U.S. operational base and provides a world-class venue for a competition of this magnitude.”
Elite Competitions and New Divisions
The championship features several high-stakes competitions, including the Elite 15 Individual races for both men and women, which took place on the evening of June 12. These races are the pinnacle of the HYROX season, featuring the top 15 male and female athletes who qualified through a series of global events.
A notable addition to this year’s championship is the debut of the Elite 15 Pro Doubles division, scheduled for June 14. This new category showcases the top 15 men’s and women’s doubles teams, emphasizing teamwork and strategic coordination.
Diverse Events and Inclusive Participation
Beyond the elite divisions, the championship includes a range of events catering to various age groups and skill levels. Age group races commenced on June 13 and continue throughout the weekend, providing opportunities for athletes across different demographics to compete on the world stage. Additionally, the Mixed Relay Invitational, featuring teams from 20 countries, took place on June 13, promoting international camaraderie and competition.
A significant highlight of the 2025 championship is the introduction of the Adaptive Invitational, set for June 15. This event underscores HYROX’s commitment to inclusivity, offering athletes with disabilities a platform to compete at the highest level.
Significant Prize Pool
The 2025 HYROX World Championship boasts a substantial prize pool of $302,000, the largest in the competition’s history. The Elite 15 Individual races allocate $150,000, with $30,000 awarded to each of the men’s and women’s champions. The Elite 15 Pro Doubles division offers $31,000, while the Mixed Relay Invitational has a prize pool of $41,000, incentivizing top-tier performances across all categories.
Global Participation and Growing Popularity
HYROX has experienced exponential growth since its inception in 2017, with over 550,000 athletes participating globally in the 2024/25 season. The United States alone accounts for more than 80,000 competitors, reflecting the sport’s increasing popularity. The standardized race format, consisting of eight 1-kilometer runs interspersed with functional workout stations, appeals to a broad spectrum of fitness enthusiasts, from elite athletes to recreational participants.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 HYROX World Championship progresses, athletes and spectators alike anticipate thrilling performances and the crowning of new world champions. The event not only celebrates individual and team achievements but also exemplifies the spirit of global fitness and community.