UPCOMING EVENTS IN SEPTEMBER 2026
September is shaping up to be one of the busiest months of the UTMB® World Series season, with no fewer than nine events. From the Nice hinterland to the mountains of Utah, by way of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, the Malaysian jungle, the Kaçkar ridges in Turkey, and the Slovenian Julian Alps, this sequence will showcase the full richness and diversity of the territories crossed by the circuit.
This period will notably be marked by the inaugural editions of Snowbasin by UTMB®, in Utah, and by the introduction of the brand-new night-time 50K format at 50K in Nice Côte d'Azur by UTMB®, two highlights that will enrich the 2026 calendar. All these events can be followed live at live.utmb.world
ULTRA-TRAIL GREAT WALL BY UTMB: The Great Wall of China is back!
For its second edition, Ultra-Trail Great Wall by UTMB® will welcome 7,300 runners, including 35.1% women, from September 11 to 13, 2026. Among them, 90.6% come from mainland China. Located in Zhangjiakou, in Hebei province, just 2.5 hours from Beijing, the event offers four race formats: 31 km (20K), 52 km (50K), 68 km (50K), and 100 km (100K), offering an experience at the heart of the Great Wall of China, through restored sections dating back to the Ming dynasty, historic trails, and technical ridgelines.
A top-tier Chinese elite field
The DGW 100 (100K) will bring together several of China's best ultra-trail runners, starting with Qin Guidu (CN, UTMB Index 888), who holds the best UTMB Index in the men's field, and Gu Rongchao (CN, UTMB Index 839). Among the women, Chi Lingjie (CN, UTMB Index 816) will be the clear favorite. In the CGW70 (50K), Luo Tao (CN, UTMB Index 881) will also be particularly closely watched, while Australia's William O'Mealley (AUS, UTMB Index 823) will bring an international dimension to the MGW50 (50K) field.
Running through historic heritage worth preserving
Crossing certain sections of the Great Wall of China, the event places the preservation of this exceptional heritage at the heart of its organization. Awareness measures will be set up along the course, and runners will notably be required to stow their poles while crossing the Wall in order to protect the historic structures.
A "Leave No Trace" policy will also be enforced: littering is strictly prohibited, bins will be available at every aid station and must be used, and course marshals will ensure this rule is respected throughout the route. The marked course must also be strictly followed, with no shortcuts, as these are a source of erosion that damages the site. No disposable tableware will be distributed at aid stations in order to limit plastic waste. A pre-race briefing will also raise awareness among all participants about the cultural importance of the site and the best practices to adopt to help preserve it.
Kaçkar by UTMB: 82 km across Turkey's greenest mountain range
From September 11 to 13, 2026, Kaçkar by UTMB® will bring together 1,113 runners for its second edition under the UTMB® World Series banner, including 71% Turkish participants and 35.9% women. At the heart of the Kaçkar massif, in northeastern Turkey, the four races, 82 km (100K), 44 km (50K), 20 km (20K), and 4 km, will showcase the many facets of this territory, from wild ridgelines to glacial lakes and traditional villages nestled in the mountains. This edition will also be marked by the introduction of a new non-competitive format, the Ayder 4K, designed as an entry point for those who want to discover trail running and experience the event's atmosphere.
A 20K set for a rematch
In the 100K, American David Hedges (USA, UTMB Index 806) will go up against Yevhenii Yermolenko (UKR, UTMB Index 757) and Markus Meinke (GER, UTMB Index 769), third in the 100M at Trail Alsace by UTMB® 2025, an international trio for a flagship distance that promises to deliver. Among the women, Joanna Tallman (GER, UTMB Index 728), winner of the 100K at Zugspitz Ultra Trail by UTMB® 2026, will look to confirm her current form on the Kaçkar trails. In the 50K, an all-Turkish duel is expected between Oğuzhan Emre Singer (TUR, UTMB Index 770) and Koray Het (TUR, UTMB Index 735). Among the women, Tuğçe Karakaya (TUR, UTMB Index 709), runner-up over the same distance last year, will look to take the next step against Luxembourg's Jil Gillen (LUX, UTMB Index 650).
The 20K is shaping up to be the race of revenge: Merstan Turhan (TUR, UTMB Index 806), the defending champion, will have to defend his crown against Irem Can Ayaz (TUR, UTMB Index 766), third last year and determined to aim higher this time. Among the women, Semra Bulut (TUR, UTMB Index 600) and Songül Albayrak (TUR, UTMB Index 514) are shaping up to be the contenders to watch.
An experience strengthened by concrete commitments
For this second edition, Kaçkar by UTMB continues its commitment to more accessible and inclusive trail running. The event notably launched, on March 8, 2026, the community initiative Run Like Her, designed to help more women build confidence and share experiences through sport and the mountains. Every last Friday of the month, a new testimonial enriches this movement, carried by women runners from different backgrounds and cultures, from Turkey to Afghanistan to Russia. Philipp Ausserhofer, involved since the initiative's earliest days as its first ambassador, and Beyza Güzel, winner of the 20K in 2025 and herself a Run Like Her ambassador, embody this momentum. The event also stands out for its commitment to including athletes with disabilities, exemplified by Kadir Çelik, a deaf runner who took part in 2025 and returns this year.
WILDSTRUBEL BY UTMB: a record-breaking fifth edition among the Swiss glaciers
From September 10 to 13, 2026, Wildstrubel by UTMB® will welcome 8,500 runners for its fifth edition, up from 7,000 in 2025. Among them, 26% will be women, while 43% of participants reside in Switzerland. At the heart of spectacular alpine landscapes, the event offers six race formats: 113 km (100M), 72 km (100K), 55 km (50K), 42 km (50K), 26 km (20K), and 10 km, for an adventure across valleys, peaks, and glaciers, where trail running brings together a community from Switzerland and around the world.
An elite field expected at the heart of the Wildstrubel
In the 110K, Rosanna Buchauer (GER, UTMB Index 804) arrives unbeaten since the start of the 2026 season, backed by two wins at the 50K of Istria 100 by UTMB 2026 and the 100K of Zugspitz Ultra-Trail by UTMB 2026. She will have to contend with male competition from Enrique Gomis (ESP, UTMB Index 875) and Joao Rodriguez (POR, UTMB Index 850). In the 70K, several contenders will battle for the win among the women: Lena Laukner (GER, UTMB Index 733), winner of the 50K at Zugspitz Ultra-Trail by UTMB 2026, Agathe Bes (FRA, UTMB Index 733), as well as Sabrina Roost (SUI, UTMB Index 770).
Among the men, Thibaut Garrivier (FRA, UTMB Index 907), runner-up in the 100K at Oh Meu Deus by UTMB 2026, and his compatriot Gautier Airiau (FRA, UTMB Index 902), winner of the 100 Miles at Restonica Trail by UTMB, are shaping up as favorites. In the 55K, Johanna Gelfgren (SWE, UTMB Index 757) will take on French runners Julie Roux (FRA, UTMB Index 771) and Julie Leloug (FRA, UTMB Index 767) for the women's win. On the men's side, Morocco's Elhousine Elazzaoui (MAR, UTMB Index 966), winner of the 20K at Chianti UTMB 2025, will start as favorite against Dominik Rolli (SUI, UTMB Index 929).
Races committed to the region and to local causes
In 2026, Wildstrubel by UTMB is strengthening its community commitment by pairing its various races with local causes through its solidarity bib program. The Wild 110 will support the Fondation Beloved, created in the wake of the Crans-Montana fire in January 2026 to support victims, their loved ones, and responders. The Wild Glacier Marathon (42k) will contribute to the work of the Fondation CREALP, dedicated to research and prevention of natural mountain hazards, while the Wild 55 will support Sport Handicap Sierre, notably to help fund a joëlette (wheelchair-hiking) challenge organized this year. Other initiatives will also support young people and local projects, including the Académie de Trail Valais at the Wild 70, which supports young athletes in their trail and distance running development. Through these commitments, the event aims to make every distance an opportunity to contribute concretely to the communities and territories that host it.
SNOWBASIN BY UTMB: an inaugural edition at the heart of Utah
From September 10 to 12, 2026, Snowbasin by UTMB® will bring together XXX runners for its inaugural edition, at the heart of the Wasatch Range in Utah. Amid aspen forests, mountain meadows, and sweeping views of the Great Salt Lake, the two races, 58 km (50K) and 28 km (20K), will showcase the many facets of this territory with an Olympic legacy, on trails that hosted several events of the 2002 Winter Olympics. The 50K, with 1,770m of elevation gain, crosses stretches of wild sagebrush before winding through aspen and fir forests, offering runners open views over Ogden City and the Great Salt Lake. The 20K, with over 730m of elevation gain, will follow the finest singletracks of the Snowbasin resort, weaving through woodland and alpine meadows while circling the entire resort beneath the surrounding rugged ridgelines. Just minutes from the start line, the iconic 25th Street in Ogden, with its restaurants, live music scene, and outdoor culture, will extend the experience well beyond the trails, for a weekend that bridges the mountains and the city.
Three Americans set the pace on the 50K
Among the men, Alex Johnson (USA, UTMB Index 824), winner of the 100K at the Desert RATS Trail Running Festival by UTMB 2025, will line up as the favorite against fellow American Ryan Root (USA, UTMB Index 822), a 100% American showdown in keeping with the strong field expected at this inaugural edition.
Among the women, the battle looks even tighter: Germany's Lotti Brinks (GER, UTMB Index 808) holds the highest Index in the field, but will have to contend with Tabor Scholl-Hemming (USA, UTMB Index 785), winner of the 20K at Rothrock by UTMB 2026, and Ashley Brasovan (USA, UTMB Index 716), runner-up in the 50K at the Desert RATS Trail Running Festival by UTMB 2025 — three different profiles for a race that promises to be tightly contested on Snowbasin's singletrack.
Malaysia Ultra-Trail by UTMB: an immersion at the heart of Taiping
From September 11 to 13, 2026, Malaysia Ultra-Trail by UTMB® will bring together 2,486 runners for its sixth edition, the third within the UTMB® World Series circuit, including 63% Malaysians and 28% women. At the heart of the historic town of Taiping, the five race formats, 98 km (100K), 55 km (50K), 26 km (20K), 14 km, and a kids' race, will showcase the many facets of this territory, from the pristine jungle reserve to the heights of Maxwell Hill, the historic railway tunnels, and the gardens of Taiping Lake, before a festive finish in the heart of the city, amid a lively local celebration atmosphere.
An anticipated elite field TO BE COMPLETED
A strengthened experience and concrete commitments
For this new edition, Malaysia Ultra-Trail by UTMB will strengthen the experience offered to participants with an immersion designed to go beyond the sporting side alone: discovering local shops and Taiping's local cuisine, as well as a finish line designed as a true festival, complete with spectators and entertainment. The event is also continuing its commitment to more inclusive and responsible trail running. Particular attention is paid to the experience of women participants, with women-only restrooms, a dedicated start line, and a specific kit available at aid stations, creating a more inclusive environment for women in trail running. The event also stands out for its commitment to athletes with disabilities, increasingly integrated into the competition year after year. Finally, a tree-planting ceremony will allow runners to directly contribute to trail and environmental preservation, with every tree purchased planted at the RIMBA site.
PARATY BRAZIL BY UTMB: a 4th edition rooted in the mountains of the Serra da Bocaina
From September 17 to 20, 2026, Paraty Brazil by UTMB® will bring together 3,800 runners for its fourth edition, including 39% women and 76% Brazilian participants. Between the Atlantic Ocean and the mountains of the Serra da Bocaina, the six race formats, 108 km (100K), 58 km (50K), 34 km (20K), 25 km (20K), 17 km (20K), and 7 km, will showcase the many facets of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed territory, through preserved Atlantic rainforest, colonial trails, and the wild beaches of the Costa Verde. Start and finish take place in the heart of Paraty's historic center, an architectural gem from the 17th and 18th centuries.
A strengthened experience and concrete commitments
Paraty Brazil by UTMB continues its commitment to trail running that is more rooted in its territory and more community-driven. The event has notably launched the solidarity bib program "Um Caiçara em Chamonix" ("A Caiçara in Chamonix"), an initiative that allows local residents of Paraty, such as teachers, sailors, or novice local athletes, to receive training, equipment, and nutritional guidance to take part in their first race. A way of bringing the event to life for its host community.
Paraty Brazil by UTMB also places particular emphasis on its inclusion efforts and the representation of women in trail running, who already make up 39% of the event's participants. A dedicated 40 m² space will be set aside for them, designed as a welcoming space for connection and support. It offers wellness activities and a place to share stories, extending into the finish area and along the course (dedicated restrooms, hygiene products, breastfeeding space). A talks program will also bring together athletes, ambassadors, and women from the local Caiçara community to give voice to issues surrounding women's inclusion in sport.
A sharp Brazilian field, ready for battle
In the PTR25, Pedro Cazzola (BRA, UTMB Index 740), third in this race last year, will try to go one better against Argentina's German Boccolini (ARG, UTMB Index 703), runner-up in the 20K at Torrencial Chile by UTMB® 2026. Among the women, Bianca Ferreira (BRA, UTMB Index 626) will chase the title against Iris Nascimento (BRA, UTMB Index 603), the defending champion in this format. In the PTR34, the highest UTMB Index in the Brazilian field belongs to Cristiano José Tedeski (BRA, UTMB Index 802), expected to be the clear favorite. Among the women, Colombia's Antonia Sanchez Lagos (COL, UTMB Index 626), runner-up in the 20K at Torrencial Chile by UTMB 2026, will challenge the Brazilians on home soil. The PTR58 is shaping up to be one of the most closely contested races of the weekend: Brian Palacios (ARG, UTMB Index 835), winner of the 20K at Ushuaia Fin del Mundo by UTMB® 2026, will take on Wellington Roberto Noronha (BRA, UTMB Index 797) and Spain's Enric Pons Mir (ESP, UTMB Index 815). In the flagship 108K distance, an all-Brazilian duel between Rogério Silverstrin (BRA, UTMB Index 828) and Rodrigo Machado Oliveira (BRA, UTMB Index 807), two legitimate contenders for the win, while Diego Tales (BRA, UTMB Index 762), the top Brazilian finisher at HOKA UTMB Mont-Blanc 2024, will also fight for his chances with the goal of securing his spot for the 2027 edition. Among the women, Giovanna Martins (BRA, UTMB Index 669), three-time 100K champion, returns to defend her title against Ivania Rambo (BRA, UTMB Index 678), runner-up last year in this format and determined to reach the top of the podium this time.
NICE CÔTE D'AZUR BY UTMB: a new format for this fifth edition
From September 24 to 27, 2026, Nice Côte d'Azur by UTMB® will bring together 7,500 runners for its fifth edition, including 21.6% women. From the Nice hinterland to the Mediterranean, the five races, 165 km (100M), 109 km (100K), 50 km (50K), 39 km (50K), and 23 km (20K), will showcase the many facets of the territory, through wild, technical terrain and mountainous relief, finishing with an iconic arrival on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice.
This edition will also be marked by the introduction of a new night-time 50K format. A dusk start from the hilltop village of Levens and a finish on the illuminated Promenade des Anglais; a technical and wild crossing through the heart of the Nice hinterland.
A high-flying duel on the Èze-Nice (50K)
In the 50K, Italy's Maximilien Drion (ITA, UTMB Index 907), third at the ETC 2025, will take on fellow Italian Lorenzo Beltrami (ITA, UTMB Index 898), winner of the 50K at KAT100 by UTMB® 2026, as well as France's Pierre Galbourdin (FRA, UTMB Index 898), 2026 French short trail champion, an evenly matched trio promising a battle at the top. Among the women, Italy's Alice Gaggi (ITA, UTMB Index 762) starts as favorite against Agnes Josefsson (SWE, UTMB Index 759), winner of the 50K at Kullamannen by UTMB® 2025. In the 100K, an Austrian duel between Johannes Nussbaumer (AUT, UTMB Index 875) and Dominik Matt (AUT, UTMB Index 871), third in the 100K at Salomon Zugspitz by UTMB® 2026. Among the women, Beliana Hilbert (GER, UTMB Index 701), third in the 100K at KAT100 by UTMB, will look to go one better against Eva Lorusso (FRA, UTMB Index 688). Finally, in the legendary 100M, Remi Gillie (FRA, UTMB Index 831) will face Dylan Dame (BEL, UTMB Index 820), runner-up in the 100M at Trail Alsace by UTMB® 2025.
100% of 50K participants transported to the start via collective transport
For this new edition, Nice Côte d'Azur by UTMB will enhance the experience offered to participants, with particular attention paid to the atmosphere at all five starts: entertainment, sound and music, and dedicated services will accompany runners before they set off. Aid stations will also receive special attention, with the trial of a "starred aid station" ("ravitaillement étoilé") experience. The event is also continuing its commitment to more accessible and responsible trail running. Particular attention is paid to the experience of women participants, with equipment and services tailored to their needs throughout the event, creating more inclusive conditions and gradually encouraging greater female participation.
On the environmental front, no plastic bottles will be used, and 100% of 50K participants will be transported to the start via collective transport, helping to reduce individual travel. Finally, the solidarity bib program will support two local associations, strengthening the event's ties to its local area.
JULIAN ALPS TRAIL RUN BY UTMB: the "Spirit of the Ibex" at the heart of the Julian Alps
From September 18 to 20, 2026, Julian Alps Trail Run by UTMB® will bring together nearly 5,000 runners for its seventh edition, the fifth since joining the UTMB® World Series circuit. Six distances will be on offer, 122 km (100M), 80 km (100K), 55 km (50K), 25 km (20K), 17 km (20K), and 11 km, showcasing the spectacular landscapes of the Julian Alps through courses linking several local destinations and communities. An alpine experience embodied by the "Spirit of the Ibex," a symbol of resilience, courage, and respect for the mountains. Women's participation will make up 32.8% of the field, with a particularly strong presence in the shorter formats: women will be the majority in the 15 km (50.6%) and the 10 km (63.1%). The event will also welcome Rut Arias Delgado, a member of the UTMB Adaptive Athletes program, who will take on the 50 km alongside her guide Joël Lawrence Williams.
An international field expected in the Julian Alps
In the 120 km (100M), Belgium's Helen Dassy (BEL, UTMB Index 720), winner of the 100M at Trail Verbier Saint-Bernard by UTMB® 2026, will face Maite Maiora Elizondo (ESP, UTMB Index 718) in what promises to be a tight duel. Among the men, Patrick Milata (SLO, UTMB Index 883), winner of the 100K at KAT100 by UTMB, will start as favorite on home soil. In the 80K (100K), Yngvild Kaspersen (NOR, UTMB Index 816), runner-up in the 100M at Chianti Ultra Trail by UTMB® 2026, will look to confirm her current form. Among the men, a Scandinavian-American duel between fellow Norwegian Frederik Toreli (NOR, UTMB Index 878), winner of the 100K at Puglia by UTMB® 2025, and David Norris (USA, UTMB Index 881), who holds the highest UTMB Index in the men's field over this distance.
Finally, in the 50K, France's Loïc Rolland (FRA, UTMB Index 891), third in the 50K at Grand Raid Ventoux by UTMB® 2025, will be among the top athletes to watch. Among the women, Johanna Gelfgren (SWE, UTMB Index 767) will also be one to watch.
Inclusion, mobility, and territory at the heart of the event
Julian Alps Trail Run by UTMB continues its commitment to offering a more inclusive and responsible experience. 50% of front-row start places will be reserved for women, while feminine hygiene kits will be available at aid stations and private changing spaces will be provided at certain sites and at the finish. The event also ensures fair recognition and rewards, as well as balanced representation in its communications. On the environmental front, the organization will strengthen its shuttle network, now accessible to both runners and spectators, in order to reduce traffic and pressure on the alpine destinations. Waste reduction, trail monitoring, and collaboration with local stakeholders complete this approach. Deeply rooted in the Julian Alps, the event also works with local communities, destinations, and local organizations to generate a positive impact beyond race weekend and to sustainably preserve the territories it crosses.
GRINDSTONE TRAIL RUNNING FESTIVAL BY UTMB®: one of the most demanding courses on the East Coast
From September 17 to 20, 2026, Grindstone by UTMB® will bring together 1,401 runners for its nineteenth edition, the fifth under the UTMB® World Series banner, including 91% American participants and 41% women entered in the 20K. At the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, between George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, the four races, 167 km (100M), 100 km (100K), 50 km (50K) and 21 km (20K), will take runners across the many facets of this territory, renowned as one of the most technical and demanding on the East Coast, spanning Appalachian ridgelines, peaks, valleys and wild forests, in the midst of a burst of autumn colors. Beyond the sporting challenge, the Shenandoah Valley stands out as a destination in its own right, nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Alleghenies. Runners will cross ridgelines, peaks and valleys, with privileged views over sunrises and sunsets, before being able to extend the experience in the surrounding towns once they cross the finish line. Grindstone by UTMB® also stands out for its double qualifier status, offering runners the chance to earn their spot both for the UTMB® World Series Finals and for the legendary Western States® Endurance Run.
Her Plus Grindstone: giving visibility to women
The event also features the Her Plus Grindstone Mentorship Program, an initiative designed to help more women and non-binary people reach the 100K start line. One female or non-binary runner will be selected to receive personalized support: guidance on preparation, race strategy, and on-site crewing on race day, making the 100K adventure more accessible and better supported. Finally, the event offers its own solidarity bib program, aimed at giving back to the territories that host the circuit's events.
Ben Robinson moves up in distance to defend his territory
In the 50K, Spain's Miguel Benitez (ESP, UTMB Index 900), fresh off a podium finish at OCC 2026, will face American Liam Meirow (USA, UTMB Index 876), runner-up in the 50K at Ultra-Trail Whistler by UTMB 2025. In the 100K, Guillaume Hansel (USA, UTMB Index 790) and Robert Brouillette (CAN, UTMB Index 773) will have to contend with Ben Robinson (USA, UTMB Index 770), winner of the 50K at last year's edition, who moves up in distance this year with the ambition of confirming his form over a longer format. Among the women, Rachel Doxey (USA, UTMB Index 637) is one to watch in this distance. Finally, in the legendary 100-miler, American Sarah Gage (USA, UTMB Index 725) will take the start in one of the most demanding races on the East Coast.
