At the start of 2021, new sporting prospects are emerging after a 2020 disrupted by the global pandemic. Over time, organizers have learned to protect athletes’ health while minimizing the impact on their work and physical preparation.
For the next twelve months, the Alpes-Maritimes department is preparing, as it does every year, to host some of the most prestigious events. The world’s best athletes will take on the challenge of conquering the coveted prize on the azure shores and waters.
Monte Carlo Rally (January 18-24)
The first event of the FIA World Rally Championship in WRC will start in Gap and finish in Monte Carlo on the Monaco rock. The granddaddy of worldwide rallies celebrates its 110th anniversary with the 89th Monte-Carlo Rally.
Paris-Nice (March 7-14)
An essential part of road cycling and the UCI World Tour, the Paris-Nice race will conclude its 79th edition in Nice. It’s an opportunity for the top contenders of the upcoming Tour de France to test themselves in the heights of the PACA region. The course connecting the capital and the Mediterranean city will be presented on January 6.
Start of the Aïcha des Gazelles Rally (March 12-13)
On the Bay of Angels, the Aïcha des Gazelles Rally will have its presentation before heading to Morocco for the grand start. This event is characterized by a different vision of auto racing, with no GPS data and off-road sections without speed.
International Indoor Trial of Nice (April 9)
With a capacity of 4,500 people, the Nikaia venue will host the 18th edition of the International Indoor Trial of Nice organized by the La Gaude Moto-club. The best riders in the world will amaze audiences of all ages with spectacular maneuvers.
Cannes International Triathlon (April 23-25)
Cannes is known not only for its cinematic aura around the Palais des Festivals. The city will host the 8th edition of its triathlon, starting from Palm Beach and following the entire Cannes coastline.
Rally of Antibes (May 13-15)
The French Rally Championship returns to Antibes next May. For this 56th edition, the azur city is once again the third stage of the national competition featuring historical vehicles.
Les Voiles d’Antibes (May 12-15)
As usual since 1996, Les Voiles d’Antibes will open the Mediterranean circuit for Traditional Yachts and Metric Classes. These races welcome the most beautiful Yachts built before 1950, known as “Classic” and those before 1976.
Ironman France-Nice (June 13)
Voted one of the most beautiful races in the world by Triathlete USA magazine, Ironman France-Nice will showcase the most stunning locations in the Nice landscape. From the Mediterranean Sea to the hinterland, spectators and participants will be captivated.
Enduro World Series Valberg (June 19)
The second stage of the Enduro World Series, Valberg will welcome the world’s best mountain bikers. The specialty for this 2021 season includes the addition of two extra stages, for a total of five stages.
Ultra-Trail Côte d’Azur Mercantour (July 9-11)
The Nice hinterland will shine brightly with one of the most challenging trail events in the world. However, the UTCAM is accessible with eight courses of all levels, broadening its range of participants and opportunities. Even novice participants will have the chance to traverse the beautiful azure panoramas.
Europétanque (July 10-12)
Along with the Mondial de Millau and La Marseillaise, Europétanque is essential for 3,000 of the best international pétanque players. Once again, the azur event will gather the world’s top triples.
Transvésubienne (October 2-3)
A legendary mountain bike race since 1988, the Transvésubienne connects the snowy peaks of the Mercantour to the azure blue Bay of Angels, featuring the world’s best mountain bikers in very technical and narrow descents.
Marathon des Alpes-Maritimes (November 28)
For the last time of the season, the Alpes-Maritimes scenery will be in the spotlight with the Nice-Cannes marathon. It is the second largest in France after Paris. Between sea and mountains, participants will traverse the most beautiful tourist sites in the department.
