Sports
Ognjen Stojanovic: Strategy and Dreams at IRONMAN Brazil
The Serbian triathlete details his approach to the competition and the relentless pursuit of Kona and the Olympics.
In an exclusive conversation with Stemma Sports, Ognjen Stojanovic, a professional triathlete from Serbia, shared his plans for the Nubank Ultravioleta IRONMAN Brazil 2026. He revealed the behind-the-scenes of his preparation, the strategic choice of Brazil, and his major sporting goals. An in-depth look at a champion's mindset.
In an exclusive interview directly from the Nubank Ultravioleta IRONMAN Brazil 2026, Serbian professional triathlete Ognjen Stojanovic spoke with Stemma Sports hosts Fabio Bessa and Thiago Kawamura. Stojanovic, who is setting foot on Brazilian soil for a competition for the first time, shared details of his journey, preparation, and ambitions for the race, revealing the mindset of an athlete striving for high performance.
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Choosing Brazil and Strategic Preparation
Stojanovic explained that IRONMAN Brazil became a crucial opportunity in his season. After competing in Ironman Texas earlier the same year, the Brazilian event emerged as a "second option" to secure a spot in Kona, should he not succeed in Texas. Immediately after the American race, he registered for the challenge on Santa Catarina soil.
Despite a tight schedule, the Serbian triathlete stated that his preparation was solid. "I had a very good winter," Stojanovic emphasized, indicating he was already in excellent shape for Texas. The one-month period after Texas was dedicated to intense and focused training for Brazil, which left him confident in his current physical condition.
To maintain race pace, Stojanovic opted to compete in the Challenge Sam Warriner the weekend before IRONMAN Brazil. Although the proximity between races is challenging, he has experience with such back-to-back events, having completed a half Iron and, the following week, IRONMAN Frankfurt years ago. "I wouldn't risk it if I didn't have this experience," he assured, demonstrating his recovery capability.
Champion's Mindset and Record Breaking
When asked about the pre-race period, Stojanovic revealed himself to be an "easy going" athlete, without the usual nervousness. With a 31-year career and over 300 triathlon and swimming races under his belt, competition has become part of his routine. Even on the Thursday preceding Sunday's race, he remains active, with a planned 94 km cycling workout and a run for the same day, emphasizing the importance of staying active for race day.
Regarding race dynamics, the Serbian demonstrated extensive knowledge of the Brazilian circuit and competitors. He has followed the sport since 2005, studying results and race courses. For IRONMAN Brazil 2026, he anticipates an open competition, without clear favorites, which could make the contest even more thrilling.
Regarding the course record of 7 hours and 31 minutes, set by Luciano Taccone, Stojanovic believes anything is possible. He cited the impressive times from Ironman Texas as an example that "not having limits in your mind" is crucial for high performance. However, he acknowledges that factors such as weather conditions and race dynamics (such as the formation of large groups in cycling) are decisive and unpredictable in a nearly 8-hour race.
Ognjen also commented on cultural stereotypes, mentioning the perception of Europeans being more serious. He shared that in 2011, he trained an entire winter in Rio Maior with Brazilian athletes like Sergio Santos, Pamela, Igor Amorelli, and Diego Bruno. This coexistence made him appreciate the "happier and more open mindset" of Brazilians, something that helped him become more open as a person and athlete.
Journey, Dreams, and Race Adaptations
His first foray into triathlon was in 2003, still as a swimmer, for fun. Two years later, in 2005, the passion for the sport, which was not "boring like swimming," hooked him for good.
Regarding nutrition during the race, Stojanovic plans to ingest about 150g of carbohydrates during cycling and 100g during the run. He emphasizes the need to adapt this strategy to race conditions, such as heat and humidity, and the intensity of the effort.
Asked about his biggest dreams in triathlon, the Serbian pointed to the Olympics and Kona. He revealed that he missed qualification for the Tokyo Games by just one position and qualification for Kona, two years ago, by a mere 38 seconds to Andre Lopez in Texas. These results motivate him to continue fighting for these major goals.
Ognjen Stojanovic proves to be an experienced and focused competitor, who is not deterred by challenges and is ready to deliver his best at IRONMAN Brazil. His strategic approach and resilient mindset promise a performance worth watching.
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