Casillas and Messias Triumph in San Pedro de la Paz: Spain and Brazil Shine in Chile

It was a weekend of drama, redemption and powerhouse performances as Miriam Casillas (ESP) and Manoel Messias (BRA) captured victory at the San Pedro de la Paz World Cup, marking a memorable debut for the Chilean venue on the World Triathlon circuit.

Casillas Ends Spain’s Decade-Long Wait for Women’s Gold

In one of the most gripping races of the season, Miriam Casillas delivered a career-defining win to become the first Spanish woman in ten years to claim a World Cup gold. The 33-year-old overcame a 10-second penalty on the run to edge out Jeanne Lehair (LUX) and Sophie Howell (CAN) in a tense finish.

Casillas had been part of a decisive breakaway from the swim alongside Howell, Kanae Takenake (JPN), and Katie Rodda (GBR). The group built a gap of over a minute on the chasers by the second transition, but drama struck when Casillas and Howell were both hit with penalties for dismount infractions.

Undeterred, Casillas surged ahead on the final lap of the run, briefly stopping to serve her penalty before charging across the line to seal her first World Cup victory since 2019.

“I learned about the penalty on the first lap,” said an emotional Casillas. “Sometimes a setback gives you more strength. That’s what happened today.”

Lehair, the Vina del Mar winner, produced another superb run to claim silver after overtaking Howell during the penalty stop, while the Canadian celebrated her maiden World Cup podium in third. Spain’s strong showing continued with Marta Pintanel in fourth and Sara Guerrero Manso in sixth, underlining the nation’s growing depth.

Messias Makes It Back-to-Back Wins

In the men’s race, Manoel Messias extended his golden streak with another commanding performance, securing back-to-back World Cup victories after his triumph in Vina del Mar.

The Brazilian once again demonstrated his signature patience and power, bridging from a 40-second deficit out of the swim to join the front group on the bike. By the final 5km run, a 15-strong lead pack had formed – until Messias and David Cantero Del Campo (ESP) broke free in the closing stages.

Messias’ final surge proved decisive as he crossed the line first, clocking the fastest run split of the day (14:10). Cantero took a hard-earned silver, with Sergio Baxter Cabrera (ESP) sprinting to bronze to complete a strong Spanish showing.

“It’s amazing to keep this form going,” Messias said. “The races have been tough, but I felt strong and confident today.”