Two new events in Germany and Oman join the UTMB World Series circuit
UTMB® World Series announces today the arrival of two new events, in brand new locations for the Series to its 2026 calendar : Salomon Zugspitz Ultra Trail powered by Ledlenser and Oman by UTMB. Two unique opportunities to connect with culture, nature, and sport, while living the UTMB World Series experience closer to home.
“We are thrilled to welcome two outstanding events into the UTMB World Series circuit, expanding our presence into emerging trail running destinations. Germany, with its passionate outdoor culture and the iconic Zugspitz Ultra Trail, and Oman, where dramatic desert mountains meet deep-rooted traditions, both embody the values that define our circuit - excellence in organization, authentic local experiences, environmental and social commitments but also breathtaking natural settings. Together, they reflect the spirit and diversity that make the UTMB World Series.” Florian Lamblin, UTMB International Executive Director
Zugspitz Ultra Trail, a hallmark of German trail running joins the circuit
Founded in 2011 by Heini and Uta Albrecht event company, Zugspitz Ultra Trail has become one of the most iconic German trail running events.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, this event is deeply rooted in the alpine spirit and trail running culture of the region.
Based in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Zugspitz Ultra Trail is a true celebration of its land and its local culture, bringing together a vibrant community of runners to experience the magic of the Bavarian Alps. In 2025, over 4 300 runners took part, among them 84% of Germans and 30% of Bavarians, a testament to its firmly rooted local character.
Through the years, the event has also built strong ties with local hosts, suppliers, retailers and running communities, ensuring the race supports tourism and regional development.
Moving forward while preserving the legacy
Taking place on June 18-20, 2026, Zugspitz Ultra Trail by UTMB will offer seven race distances from 20K to 100M. Through the different courses, runners will traverse rugged mountain trails, forest paths, and high alpine passes, connecting five starting locations and passing through traditional Bavarian villages, glacial valleys, and panoramic ridgelines. The event will continue to be operated by the same experienced team, whose deep local knowledge and commitment to excellence have shaped Zugspitz Ultra Trail by UTMB into one of the most-loved trail events.
« It just makes sense that Germany, as a big and ambitious trail running community, is now part of the UTMB World Series. Zugspitz Ultra Trail by UTMB is the largest and most beautiful race we have in Germany; I'm really looking forward to the start in 2026! » declared Ida-Sophie Hegemann, German elite trail runner (GER, UTMB Index 726) Registrations will open on November 11th, 2025 for UTMB Index holders and on November 13th for everyone else at https://zugspitz.utmb.world/
Oman by UTMB returns to the UTMB World Series, with community, culture, and heritage at its heart
Seven years after its last appearance on the Ultra-Trail® World Tour, Oman by UTMB will return to the global circuit as part of the UTMB World Series on December 10-12, 2026.
Building on the legacy of Oman’s flagship annual mountain event - Himam Trail Run Race - the comeback of this event marks a meaningful renewed collaboration shaped by authenticity, and community.
Trail running through time and tradition
Framed by the imposing Hajar mountains and inspired by Oman's ancient trade routes, the 2026 edition will celebrate Omani heritage while showcasing the nation’s mountainous landscape and natural beauty.
Offering four race distances, 100M, 100K, 50K and 20K, the event links the historic towns of Birkat Al Mouz welcoming the race village, Al Hamra, Izki, Nizwa, and Jabal Akhdar, inviting runners to explore the rugged local mountains, crossing ancient villages and wadis, UNESCO-listed sites, high ridges, as well as centuries-old trails once used by shepherds and traders. Along the way, local communities extend Omani hospitality, welcoming runners with warmth, pomegranates, and traditional coffee amidst breathtaking scenery.
“The event is a powerful symbol of how nature, culture and endurance come together to define authentic experiences in Oman.” said H.E. Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Sultanate of Oman. “Through Oman by UTMB, we look forward to welcoming the global trail community to our highlands where hospitality runs deep and every summit tells a story.”
Assim Al Saqri, President of Himam Trail Run Race, organiser of the event, added that the return marks a defining moment for both Omani sport and the wider trail community: “We are delighted to see Oman by UTMB return to the international calendar as a staple of the Middle East’s endurance landscape and a defining fixture in the UTMB World Series. The event reinforces Oman’s position on the global trail map and as a place where professional standards meet genuine adventure.”
A lasting commitment to people and the land already in action
Beyond the race, Oman by UTMB represents a long-term commitment to the land and its people. Over the past three years, the organisers at Himam Trail Run team have worked hard to preserve and expand 210km of trail networks, connecting mountain communities while preventing erosion and land degradation. They have also trained 450 volunteers across logistics, timing, safety, and media roles, and partnered with Be’ah, Oman’s leading waste management company, to reduce single-use plastics and improve recycling.
Female participation reached 24% in 2024, with numbers continuing to grow year-on-year.
The 2026 edition will continue to build on this legacy with a series of flagship initiatives that further strengthen inclusivity, community engagement, and environmental stewardship.
For example, the event will welcome adaptive athletes and offer support for athletes with disabilities. Alongside this, a mentorship initiative is also expected, with coaching and access for young runners, particularly girls from rural areas. To strengthen local expertise, an Upskilling Program will enable Oman by UTMB volunteers to train in the Mont Blanc valleys at HOKA UTMB® Mont Blanc, bringing home international best practice to share across Oman’s growing trail community. Support for local artisans and farmers will continue through the sourcing of race goods and runner packages, with aid stations also featuring locally grown dates and Jabal Akhdar pomegranates.
Registrations will open on February 3rd, 2026 for UTMB Index holders and on February 5th, 2026 for everyone at https://oman.utmb.world/
