Marathon et Semi-Marathon La Rochelle 2026 – Guide Complet
The La Rochelle 2026 marathon and half-marathon is one of the most eagerly awaited events of the year for running enthusiasts. Whether you're an experienced runner or a novice, this event offers a unique opportunity to take part in a prestigious race in a warm, festive atmosphere.
Description de l’événement
The La Rochelle Marathon, to be held at La Rochelleis renowned for its impeccable organization and picturesque course. Participants will have the opportunity to discover the beauty of the city while taking up a sporting challenge. The more accessible half-marathon also offers a less demanding distance.
The different races and routes on offer
The marathon
The La Rochelle Marathon features a 42.195-kilometer course, passing through some of the city's most beautiful neighborhoods. The start and finish are located at emblematic sites, offering runners an unforgettable visual experience.
Course strengths:
- Flat land : The course profile is virtually flat, which favours performance and enables runners to maintain a steady pace throughout the race.
- Double start : To avoid traffic jams at the start and ensure greater comfort for all participants, runners are divided into two groups.
- Festive atmosphere: The route is enlivened by a large number of bands (around 12) set up every 2 kilometers, creating a festive and encouraging atmosphere.
Other features :
- Start and finish : Departure from Quai Maubec and Durand, while l’arrivée se situe dans le centre-ville historique de La Rochelle.
- A varied course : The route takes you through different parts of the city, parks and emblematic La Rochelle monuments.
- Distance : Le marathon s’étend sur 42,195 km.
- Other races : En plus du marathon, l’événement propose d’autres courses comme le semi-marathon, le 10 km, le duo et le challenge entreprises.
Half-marathon (21.1 km)
An ideal distance to challenge yourself without overexerting yourself.
10 km
A shorter race, perfect for less trained runners or those wishing to discover the marathon atmosphere.
Duo
A race in teams of two, with each runner covering one half of the course.
Challenge Entreprises
Une course réservée aux équipes d’entreprises, idéale pour renforcer la cohésion d’équipe.
Handi races
Racing adapted for people with disabilities.
Leg warmer
A friendly race organized the day before the marathon, to warm up and meet other participants.
Paths and their particularities
Each route is designed to offer a mix of challenge and fun. Riders will pass through bustling urban areas, verdant parks and historic sites, creating a diverse and stimulating experience.
History of the competition
The beginnings of the La Rochelle marathon
Created several decades ago, the La Rochelle Marathon has rapidly gained in popularity thanks to its friendly atmosphere and professional organization. Initially limited to a few hundred participants, it now attracts thousands of runners from all over the world.
C’est une véritable aventure humaine founded in 1991, grâce à la passion d’un groupe de bénévoles et d’athlètes.
The beginnings: A desire to bring people together
L’idée d’organiser un marathon à La Rochelle a germé dans les esprits de plusieurs passionnés de course à pied. Après plusieurs tentatives infructueuses, c’est finalement en 1990 qu’un projet concret voit le jour. L’année suivante, le premier Marathon de La Rochelle est organisé, et le succès est au rendez-vous.
Serge Vigot: The beating heart of the marathon
Serge Vigotan emblematic figure in the world of running, played a decisive role in the development of the marathon. His energy, passion and dedication have enabled the event to consolidate its position as one of France's leading marathons. In tribute to his commitment, the marathon now bears his name.
L’évolution au fil des ans
Over the years, the La Rochelle Marathon has evolved, incorporating modern technologies to enhance the experience of runners and spectators alike. Innovations include chip timing, dedicated mobile applications and enhanced security measures.
La Rochelle 2026 Half Marathon
📍 La Rochelle, Charente-Maritime (Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France)
Sunday, March 29, 2026 Half-marathon (21.097 km), 2 and 5 km relays.
→ Morning starts (e.g. half-marathon at 8h30, 5 km away 8h15).
✳️ Note: some early sources mention other potential dates (eg. March 15), but the most recent official information indicates that March 29, 2026 as the date of the half-marathon.
🗓️ La Rochelle Marathon 2026
📍 La Rochelle, Charente-Maritime (Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France)
Sunday, November 29, 2026 Marathon (42.195 km), 10 km, marathon duo and relay, handisport.
👉 The next edition is scheduled for autumn, and traditionally closes the marathon season in France.
The 2025 marathon program
Key dates and times
The La Rochelle 2024 marathon will take place over two days, the weekend of november 30, 2025. The marathon takes place on Sunday, November 30, with a start at 9:00 am, while the half-marathon begins at 10:00 am.
Related events
In addition to the main races, the La Rochelle Marathon offers activities for all ages and fitness levels. Children's races, wellness walks and training sessions are organized throughout the weekend.
Winners of all editions
2023 – HEYE BERHANU
2022 – HEYE BERHANU
2021 – SOI Edwin
2020- Race cancelled
2019 – OLIAULO Emmanuel
2018 – SAEKWO Alex
2017 – WORKNEH Tesfa
2016 – OLIAULO Emmanuel
2015 – KIGEN Nobert
2014 – MESFIN Afewerk
2013 – KOSGEI Isaac
2012 – BUSHENDICH Chentan
Informations pour s’inscrire
Procédure d’inscription
Pour participer au marathon ou au semi-marathon de La Rochelle 2024, les coureurs doivent s’inscrire en ligne sur le site officiel de l’événement. Les places sont limitées, il est donc recommandé de s’inscrire le plus tôt possible.
Useful links and resources
Marathon et semi-marathon La Rochelle 2024 – FAQ
What are the dates for the La Rochelle 2025 marathon?
The La Rochelle 2025 marathon will take place on November 29 and 30.
Comment s’inscrire au marathon de La Rochelle 2025 ?
Vous pouvez vous inscrire en ligne sur le site officiel de l’événement: https://marathondelarochelle.com/
What courses are available?
Two main courses are on offer: the 42.195 km marathon and the 21.1 km half-marathon, the 10 km.
Are there any events for children?
Oui, des courses pour enfants et d’autres activités familiales sont organisées durant le week-end.
What advice do you have for participants?
Il est conseillé de s’entraîner régulièrement, de bien s’hydrater et de suivre un régime alimentaire adapté avant la course.
Conclusion
The La Rochelle 2025 marathon and half-marathon promise to be memorable events for all participants. With exceptional organization, magnificent courses and a festive atmosphere, it's an opportunity not to be missed by running enthusiasts.
