About UTMB Group

The UTMB Group story began in 2003 in the Chamonix valley, when Catherine and Michel Poletti, with a group of passionate friends, launched a bold challenge: to run around Mont Blanc, crossing three countries – France, Switzerland and Italy. At a time when trail running was still relatively unknown, they laid the foundations for an original organisational model from the very start, with a company and an association working hand in hand. The event quickly gained recognition, growing into a global celebration of trail running. Over the course of one week, eight races welcome around 10,000 runners from more than 100 nationalities. These experienced runners, selected by ballot with a fixed number of places for around ten years now, race across preserved terrain. While thousands of supporters cheer them on along the course, millions of fans follow the adventure on UTMB Live, turning this story of friendship into a global benchmark for trail running.

Internationalisation began in 2014 with the creation of the UTWT (Ultra-Trail World Tour), bringing together international races, followed in 2017 by UTMB International, developed with OC Sports. In 2021, UTMB Group joined forces with The IRONMAN Group, combining their expertise in delivering world-class events and promoting sport to a wider audience. Together they launched the UTMB World Series – now a global trail running circuit comprising more than 70 events across 35 countries and 4 continents.

Created by Isabelle and Mickaël Viseux-Poletti, Livetrail was developed alongside event operations to provide innovative solutions for optimal race tracking for organisers, runners and supporters. Using data analysis, these solutions improve the management of safety, logistics, information and races. Also, while providing services to runners, their supporters and fans following their favourite athletes.

Born in 2023 from a growing number of voices, UTMB Cares brings the Group's social commitment to life by supporting two sides of the same love for the living world. This endowment fund is financed through solidarity bibs, runner donations and company donations. It stands up for the right to a horizon; by championing access to trail running as a tool for rebuilding for those who need it, and for the living world as a shared heritage - by funding the protection and restoration of the natural environments we pass through.

At UTMB Group we believe trail running is more than just a sport – it’s a breath of fresh air, a human adventure that brings us closer to one another and to the natural world.

With over 20 years of dedication, we work alongside race organisers, volunteers and partners who share our passion and values, united in shaping a sustainable and responsible future for trail running.

From 9 friends to passionate team members, UTMB Group has grown into a community of 120 employees based in France (Chamonix and Annecy), Spain, the UK, Switzerland, Italy, Mexico and China.

Recognised as a Great Place to Work, UTMB Group offers a supportive, inspiring and people-centred working environment – and of course one that lives and breathes the spirit of trail running.