The Nice Côte d’Azur trail event by UTMB returns at the end of September. With a new route for the 100 km, a festive program, and charitable actions, the Nice metropolis is ready to welcome athletes, families, and spectators.
From September 25 to 28, 2025, Nice will once again become the meeting point for trail running. Several races are already full, such as the 20 km, 50 km, and 100 km distances. However, there are still some spots available for other events.
The big news concerns the 100 km. The first 40 kilometers have been redesigned, between Roubion and Brec d’Utelle. The course now goes through Ilonse, Bairols, Tournefort, and La Tour. The terrain becomes more technical and isolated. The total elevation gain increases by 600 m, reaching 5,152 m D+. The time limit is now set to 30 hours.
Beyond the competition, the organization supports two local associations. Mission Trekkeurs, which intervenes in sites destroyed by natural disasters, and Solidarité 06, which supports homeless women in the Alpes-Maritimes. Charity bibs still allow contributions to these causes.
Gender equality in trail running remains a priority. The Women in Trail initiative continues its development. With 26.6% of women among the finishers in 2024, the event confirms a trend that continues to strengthen thanks to concrete actions. These include webinars, a discussion group, the availability of hygiene products, adapted infrastructures, and the presence of a dedicated female representative on-site.
A program open to everyone
Nice Côte d’Azur by UTMB is not limited to elite athletes. The event offers multiple formats to welcome all audiences.
The night relay on Thursday, September 25, at 8 pm kicks off the weekend. In teams of two, participants run a 700 m loop to be repeated ten times. The atmosphere is intended to be friendly and accessible.
The following day is dedicated to the youth. On Friday, September 26, at 6:30 pm, several adapted races allow 10-17-year-olds to discover trail running. Online registration is still possible.
At the heart of the event, the Ultra-Trail Village is set up on the Promenade des Anglais. Free and open, it brings together sports brands, nutrition, equipment, and interactive activities. Visitors can meet athletes, test equipment, or simply enjoy the activities. Families will find food, rest areas, and activities throughout the weekend.
Children are not forgotten. Specific races organized on the Promenade des Anglais offer the youngest the chance to participate. The events are free and adapted to the age of the participants. A medal and a snack await the children at the finish line. The goal is to convey the values of trail running: effort, mutual support, and enjoyment.
Participate in other ways: spectators and volunteers
Nice Côte d’Azur by UTMB can also be experienced without a race bib. Being a spectator is an active way to take part in the event. The support boosts the runners’ energy, whether they are amateurs or elites. Dedicated zones will be set up in Nice and the surrounding villages. Each evening, the Promenade des Anglais becomes a gathering place around the arrivals.
The organization also mobilizes more than 1,000 volunteers. Reception, refreshment stations, route marking, medical assistance, logistics: there are many missions. No prior experience is needed, just the desire to contribute. Volunteers experience the event from the inside and share a collective adventure.
Beyond the competition, Nice Côte d’Azur by UTMB takes the shape of a festival of sport and sharing. Residents, holidaymakers, families, curious individuals, and enthusiasts gather around the event. Everyone can choose how to participate: run, support, explore, or volunteer their time.
