OFFICIAL STATEMENT - NICE COTE D’AZUR BY UTMB 2026

Following the widespread reaction and strong support shown in light of recent uncertainties surrounding the 2026 edition of Nice Côte d’Azur by UTMB, the organizer, UTMB Group, wishes to sincerely thank the running community for their dedication and commitment to the event.

Yesterday, the City of Nice announced the withdrawal of its financial support for the event's organization. This funding represented a structural part of the overall budget required to organize and sustain an international event of this scale- a member of the UTMB World Series global circuit for 5 years, whose economic benefits directly serve the people of Nice and the inhabitants of the 24 involved municipalities, amounting to 10.6 million euros in 2025.

In this new context, UTMB Group has made the exceptional decision to maintain the 2026 edition. Preparations are already at an advanced stage, the event is sold out, and 6,500 runners along with 3,000 supporters have already committed to traveling to Nice. Furthermore, numerous local economic and tourism stakeholders are already fully mobilized for this event. Honoring its commitments is a core value of UTMB Group, even if it means accepting a budget deficit and absorbing a significant financial impact following the 2026 edition.

UTMB Group wishes to reassure all participants, volunteers, partners, economic and tourism stakeholders, and all involved parties: the organization’s priority remains welcoming runners under the best possible conditions. While some adjustments may be necessary, the runner experience and safety standards will be preserved, in accordance with the high requirements of UTMB World Series events and the expectations of the athletes.

The Nice Côte d’Azur by UTMB Team