Paris, March 3 – This Sunday, March 8, 2026, the Paris Half-Marathon is set to host a record-breaking 50,000 runners, solidifying its status as the world’s most popular half-marathon. Organizers have released key figures, practical information, and course details for this highly anticipated event.
Record Participation and Demographics
The 2026 edition marks an absolute record in participation, with 50,000 runners registered. Among these, 15% are international participants, representing 103 nationalities. The event also highlights a significant increase in female participation, with women making up 46% of the peloton, up from 44% last year and 35% in 2022. This trend confirms the growing feminization of competitive running, particularly in shorter distances.
Interestingly, 34% of the runners will be tackling a half-marathon for the first time, showcasing the event’s appeal to newcomers. While only 7% aim for a time under 1 hour 35 minutes, a substantial 60% of participants are primarily focused on crossing the finish line, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the race.
The Course: A Familiar Route Through Paris
The 2026 course remains largely unchanged, offering a familiar route for returning participants. Runners will start from Boulevard Saint-Germain on the Left Bank, cross the Seine via the Pont de Tolbiac, and proceed along Rue de Charenton. Around the 5-kilometer mark, the course enters the Bois de Vincennes, passing by the Château de Vincennes. Exiting the park at kilometer 14, runners will then join the banks of the Seine at kilometer 17. Just before the 20-kilometer mark, they will pass the Hôtel de Ville before a final turn towards Place de la Bastille, where the finish line awaits.
Despite its relatively flat profile, the Paris Half-Marathon features an elevation gain of 166 meters, making it less ‘rolling’ than some other half-marathons.
New Hydration Rules: A Sustainable Approach
In a significant change, this year’s half-marathon, like the upcoming Paris Marathon on April 12, will implement a new hydration system without water bottles or cups at aid stations. Participants are required to bring their own reusable containers, which can be refilled at water fountains located at kilometers 4.5, 9, 15, and 19. Solid refreshments, including bananas, cakes, fruit pastes, and crackers, will be available for self-service at these stations.
Start Times and Bib Collection
Starts will be staggered from 8:00 AM for elite athletes until 12:00 PM for the last wave of runners, a necessary measure given the large number of participants. Runners are advised to respect their designated start corrals, chosen during registration, and arrive early. Volunteers will be on hand to guide participants. Free baggage drop-off will be available on Boulevard Bastille, near the finish area, with a size limit of 45cm high, 36cm wide, and 20cm deep.
Bib collection will take place at the official race village, located at the Grande Halle de La Villette, during the following hours:
- Friday, March 6: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Saturday, March 7: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
No bibs will be distributed on Sunday morning. The race village, open to all, will feature various activities, experts, and nearly 30 exhibitors, offering a convivial space for runners, companions, and running enthusiasts.
Elite Field: Strong Competition Expected
The elite men’s field will see the return of the entire 2025 podium, including defending champion Kennedy Kimutai, Timothy Kosgei, and Timothy Misoi. Belgian athlete Isaac Kimeli, a HOKA athlete and 5000m world silver medalist, will make his half-marathon debut and could be a surprise contender. Several French athletes are also aiming for a top 10 finish on the fast course.
Jim Walmsley, the 2023 UTMB winner and reigning trail world champion, will also participate, running for pleasure as part of Team Hoka, the event’s title partner. The women’s race promises to be highly competitive, with defending champion Jackline Cherono returning to defend her title.
Source: jogging-international.net
