Monaco 🗓️ 14 et 15 février 2026
Source: https://www.monacorun.com/
The Monaco Run Gramaglia is more than just a race; it is a high-speed evolution of one of the world’s most unique marathons. Originally a cross-border endurance event, it has transformed into a weekend-long festival of running that currently holds some of the world’s fastest road records.
Here is the breakdown of its history and current form:
1. The Origins: The Three-Country Marathon (1997–2009)
Before it was the “Monaco Run Gramaglia,” the event was known as the Monaco and Riviera Marathon.
- The Concept: Launched in 1997 to celebrate 700 years of the Grimaldi dynasty, it was the only marathon in the world to cross three countries: Monaco, France, and Italy.
- The Route: Runners started in Monaco, ran along the coast through Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Menton (France) to Ventimiglia (Italy), before turning back to finish at the iconic Stade Louis II.
- The End of an Era: Due to the logistical nightmare of coordinating three nations, as well as territorial constraints, the full marathon was retired after 2009.
2. Transition and Rebranding (2010–2023)
In 2010, the event shifted focus to stay within the Principality’s borders.
- 2011: The event was officially rebranded as the Monaco Run. It focused on shorter, faster distances like the 10km and the half-marathon.
- A “Record Factory”: The course was designed to be exceptionally flat and fast, following the harbor and the Mediterranean coast. It quickly became a favorite for elite athletes looking to set world and European records.
- The Hoka Era: For several years, Hoka served as the title sponsor, helping the race gain international “elite” status.
3. The Modern Era: Monaco Run Gramaglia (2024–Present)
In 2024, the event entered its current chapter with a new title partnership with the Gramaglia Group, a prominent Monégasque family firm.
- Diversification: The event expanded beyond road racing to include the City Trail (incorporating Monaco’s famous staircases) and the Trail du Mont Agel (a 30km mountain run).
- Current Records: Monaco is currently a “Mecca” for the 5km distance. In 2020, Joshua Cheptegei set a world record here ($12:51$), and in 2025, Cassandre Beaugrand and Diane Van Es set French and European records, respectively.
- 2026 Edition: The event just celebrated a record-breaking year with approximately 4,500 participants, its largest turnout ever.
Key Events in the Current Festival
Today, the “Monaco Run Gramaglia” typically spans two days in February and features:
- Trail du Mont Agel (30km): High-elevation technical trail.+1
- City Trail (12km): A “tour” of Monaco’s urban landscape and steps.
- The 5km & 10km: The “flagship” road races known for elite performance.
- Pink Ribbon Walk: A non-competitive charity walk for breast cancer awareness.
- Children’s Races: Free 1,000m sprints for the next generation of runners.
