---
title: WhatsApp template management
description: Create, submit, and track Meta-approved WhatsApp message templates in Twilio
order: 13
---

# WhatsApp template management

WhatsApp requires **pre-approved message templates** before you can send outbound messages. Manage templates in the manager console after connecting [Twilio](twilio.md).

**Path:** Manager console → Marketing → **WhatsApp → Templates**

## Create a template

1. Marketing → WhatsApp → Templates → **Create**
2. Match Twilio Content Template structure (header, body, buttons, variables)
3. Save in DistantRace — then submit the same design in [Twilio Console](https://console.twilio.com/) for Meta approval

See [Twilio setup → WhatsApp message design](twilio.md) for Meta category tips (use **Utility** for result notifications when possible).

## Template detail

Track approval status synced from Twilio. Only **approved** templates appear in [WhatsApp campaigns](whatsapp-campaigns.md).

## Test send

On a template detail page, enter a phone number in international format (`+371...`) and **Send test** to preview how the message renders in WhatsApp before running a campaign.

## Delete template

Remove a template from DistantRace and Twilio when it is no longer needed. Deleting an in-use template blocks future campaigns that reference it.

## Variables

Templates use placeholders for participant name, event name, result link, etc. Fill variables when sending a campaign.

## Related

- [WhatsApp campaigns](whatsapp-campaigns.md)
- [Twilio](twilio.md)