“Our studies are like our fourth sport!”

University triathletes switch as easily from their computers to their running shoes as from swimming to cycling. And in Nyon, the Germans do it a little better than the rest, claiming the world titles in both men’s sprint and team relay. Hungary’s Dominika Peszleg won the women’s gold.

The lakeside of Nyon was buzzing with activity all weekend as the beautiful Swiss city wasn’t only hosting the World University Championships, but also Nyon’s traditional triathlon with many categories as well as the World Triathlon Youth League. There were bikes, trainers and swim caps everywhere, as well as a large audience of supporters. But it apparently takes more to stress the impressive Organising Committee, made up entirely of volunteers.

Ladies first

The first student-athletes to battle in the waters of Lake Léman were the 51 women coming from all five continents to compete for the world title. Italy’s Martina McDowell was the fastest out of the water, but all triathlon fans knows that this doesn’t really mean anything.

Manon Pommé (FRA) and Cristina Jiménez-Orta Guerrero (ESP) each led each one of the bike loops, but the race kept on being extremely tight.

“It was a tough battle, but I loved every minute of it”, said the winner desperately trying to cool down. “I hink I did the right thing by staying slightly behind on my bike as the others were running a little too closely for my liking! When I crossed the finish line I still felt like I could carry on. Maybe I have my altitude training in St Moritz to thank for that. It was fantastic to race in front of so many people, the crowd was great!”

Two Freiburg Uni students on the men’s podium

70 student-athletes from 29 countries and regions took part to the men’s race. Two future medallists were the first ones out of the lake, with Hungary’s Gergö Dobi – whose sister was also competing in Switzerland – in front of Jan Scheffold (GER).

Hungary continued to impress during the cycling stage, with two Gergös (Dobi and Soós) right at the front, closely chased by fellow Germans Jan Scheffold and Benedikt Bettin.

The 24-year-old student – who was the second favourite of the event behind Netherland’s Ian Pennekamp – didn’t only manage to finish quite far ahead, he also admitted to have taken in the scenery! “I ran most of the race with a smile on my face! Yes, it was tough, but so beautiful! In the water, the first buoy was aligned with the Mont Blanc so I just aimed for this amazing mountain. The cycling was also super enjoyable, I was having so much fun. Then I admit I was totally focused on my race and I am super happy with the result. It is an honour to have won the university world title as combining studies and high level sport isn’t always easy!”

Mixed Relay

Believe it or not, Nyon was the first ever relay that future gold medallists Julia Bodenschatz and Sophie Giessmann ever ran. “It is tough, but competing for your teammates gives you extra energy! I felt it all along!” admitted a smiling Sophie Giessmann.

It is definitely the mixed relay that showcases best the university sport spirit. Every team had prepared a special “choreography” for the athlete’s presentation. “I think we need to practice our entrance”, joked double gold medallist Benedikt Bettin. Luckily we were must less embarrassing during the competition!”

Indeed, Germany has a really solid team that seemed to have always competed together. Julia Bodenschatz, self-proclaimed team-leader summarised their effort easily. “I believe we made it early to the front and stayed there throughout the race. The course was pretty hard, but we enjoyed it a lot!”

Does Benedikt Bettin apply his physics knowledge to perform better? “I guess it helps me think logically”, he answers laughing. “Our studies are like our fourth sport!” and then they incredibly add in unison “they help us train our brain!”

Cinderella syndrome?

The Nyon 2026 FISU World University Championship Triathlon is now officially over. We could like to congratulate all the student-athletes and coaches and thank the referees, volunteers, partners, and supporters for their enthusiasm and hard work.

The FISU World University Championship 2026 season is now in full swing. Tune on to the London 2026 FISU World University Championship Rowing that is taking place in Canada from 13-15l 9 August.

All the action is be streamed live! Don’t miss any of the races. To watch click here.


Click here to access photos and highlights.
Click here to get all the results!

You can find out more information on the event’s official website and on its social media outlets, Instagram and Facebook.