Paris Marathon Undergoes Major Transformation from 2027: New Organizer, Permanent Route, and Optional Medals
Paris, May 23, 2026 – A significant shift is set to redefine the landscape of French running as the Paris Marathon, the nation’s largest and most prestigious race, will transition to a new organizing entity starting from its 2027 edition. After three decades under the stewardship of ASO (Amaury Sport Organisation), the event will now be managed by the Cadence group, following a successful bid for the four-year contract to organize the capital’s premier race.
A New, Permanent Course Confirmed for Future Editions
Speculation surrounding radical annual changes to the marathon route has been put to rest. While the course will indeed be different from its current iteration, it will not be subject to yearly modifications. A source within the Cadence group confirmed to Ouest-France, “It will not be the current course, and we have submitted a very concrete proposal to the Paris City Council, which will also require the prefecture’s approval. Once the course is established for next year, it will remain the same every year.” This decision aims to provide stability and familiarity for runners and organizers alike, ensuring a consistent experience for participants in the coming years. The idea of the new course circling the capital via the périphérique has been dismissed, clarifying earlier rumors.
Optional Finisher’s Medal: A Step Towards Sustainability and Choice
In another notable change, participants in the Paris Marathon will have the option to decline a finisher’s medal. This initiative, while not fully detailed, hints at a potential move towards greater sustainability and offering runners more personalized choices. The exact implications and reasons behind this option are expected to be elaborated upon by Cadence as they roll out further details about the 2027 event.
End of an Era for ASO, Beginning for Cadence
The transition marks the end of a long-standing partnership between ASO and the Paris Marathon, a collaboration that has seen the event grow into an international spectacle. Cadence, now at the helm, faces the task of upholding the marathon’s legacy while introducing innovations that cater to modern running trends and participant expectations. The group has secured the organization rights for four years, indicating a long-term vision for the event.
Impact on the Running Community and Future Expectations
The news has sent ripples through the running community, with many eagerly awaiting further announcements regarding the new course details, registration processes, and any other changes Cadence plans to implement. The Paris Marathon is not only a major sporting event but also a significant tourist attraction, drawing thousands of international runners and spectators to the French capital each year. The changes are expected to influence both the logistical aspects of the race and the overall participant experience.
The departure of ASO, an organization renowned for its expertise in managing large-scale sporting events including the Tour de France, signifies a new chapter for the Paris Marathon. Cadence’s approach, emphasizing a permanent new route and offering choices like the optional medal, suggests a fresh perspective on marathon organization, potentially setting new standards for major city races.
Further details regarding the 2027 Paris Marathon, including the finalized course map and registration information, are anticipated to be released by the Cadence group in the coming months as they prepare to take over the reins of this iconic event.
Source: https://www.ouest-france.fr/sport/running/marathon/marathon-de-paris/info-ouest-france-un-parcours-nouveau-mais-perenne-la-medaille-en-option-ce-quon-sait-du-futur-marathon-de-paris-2f0571ba-55ed-11f1-b3d6-3bcc124ee9cc
