Schürrle cancels Challenge Roth: family comes first, triathlon 2026 possible!

Schürrle cancels Challenge Roth: family comes first, triathlon 2026 possible!

The anticipation for the DATEV Challenge Roth, one of the largest long-distance triathlons in the world, has been great in the last few weeks. But the news that André Schürrle, the former soccer world champion, had to cancel his participation in the event, which will take place on July 6, 2025, surprised many fans. However, the reason is very understandable: an important moment in his daughter's life falls on the same weekend, and the father of the family wants to be present at this precious time. That reported nordbayern.de.

Although the cancellation is disappointing, Schürrle has already made a promise for the future. He could well imagine starting in Roth next year. The Mannheim native, who can look back on an impressive football career - including successes with Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund as well as the decisive assist in the 2014 World Cup final - is looking for new challenges in endurance sports. After retiring in 2020, Schürrle is now devoting himself to extreme sports and has already taken part in several competitions, including the Berlin Marathon and various swim & run events.

A passionate path

Since ending his football career, Schürrle has focused on endurance sports and has a clear goal: “Empty the tank” – getting the most out of himself. His goal in triathlon is to experience his mental and physical limits. Race director Felix Walchshöfer expressed his enthusiasm for Schürrle's commitment, which inspires both football and triathlon fans. “We have a world champion here who wants to compete with heart and passion,” said Walchshöfer. challenge-roth.com.

The distance of the triathlon in Roth is impressive: 3.8 kilometers of swimming, followed by 180 kilometers of cycling and a final marathon of 42.2 kilometers. For Schürrle it is a new kind of challenge that will push him to his limits. He has announced that he is ready to experience the “dark moments” that are often associated with such extreme sports events.

A look back and forward

André Schürrle remains active in the sporting world even after his time in football. The former international player has played for teams such as Bayer Leverkusen, Chelsea FC and Borussia Dortmund over the course of his career and can proudly look back on his 22 goals in 57 international matches. He also emphasizes that his role as a father is his top priority and that family moments are irreplaceable. world.de.

Whether on the soccer field or on the triathlon course, Schürrle shows that he always cares about giving his best. Participation in Challenge Roth next year could not only be a personal goal, but also an opportunity to develop further and set new sporting milestones.