Paris, France – The City of Lights is preparing to welcome a record-breaking 50,000 participants to the annual Paris Half Marathon on Sunday, March 8, 2026. Confirming its status as one of the world’s largest and most popular road races, the event surpasses Lisbon’s field of 35,000 runners, a race that recently featured Ugandan star Jacob Kiplimo. The 2026 edition of the semi-marathon promises a spectacle of athleticism and community spirit, building on the growing global passion for running.
While Kiplimo won’t be on the Parisian streets this year, opting to focus on courses more conducive to record attempts, the competition is set to be fierce. The Ugandan long-distance runner, who holds the world record in the half marathon with a time of 56:42 (set in Barcelona in February 2025), has noted that the Paris course is less “rolling” than that of Lisbon. This acknowledgement underscores the unique challenges and appeal of running through the French capital.
Demand for entry into the Paris Half Marathon has surged in recent years. The race filled to capacity in July 2025, two months earlier than the previous edition, demonstrating the event’s increasing popularity. This surge in participation mirrors the broader “running boom,” with the Paris Half Marathon offering a compelling challenge accessible to a wide range of runners, unlike its larger counterpart, the Paris Marathon, scheduled for April 12th with an anticipated 60,000 participants.
Finding the Right Distance
“You don’t need to have been running for years to complete a half marathon,” explains Bernard, an amateur runner who participated in his first Paris Half Marathon last year. “A marathon is a different story altogether. It requires a much longer preparation period.” The 21.0975-kilometer distance strikes a balance, appealing to both seasoned runners and those seeking a challenging yet attainable goal.
The course itself is a key draw, offering a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes. Runners will traverse the Bois de Vincennes, a large public park on the edge of Paris. “This race is truly magnificent,” says Bilal Bourazza, a mental and physical trainer. “It’s not flat like a billiard table, but it’s not a mountain either. For ten kilometers (from the 5th to the 15th arrondissement), there’s an incline, and then it descends. The course remains generally rolling, which is what makes it, in my opinion, the most elegant half marathon in the world.”
For many participants, the race is more than just a physical challenge. it’s an opportunity to experience Paris from a unique perspective. “I don’t know if I’ll have time to look at the scenery,” laughs Augusta, who will be running with 20 other young women from the Etendart association. Etendart utilizes sport and art to empower young people from underserved neighborhoods in Paris. “I expect to suffer during my first half marathon.”
Growing Female Participation
The Paris Half Marathon continues to spot a significant increase in female participation, currently standing at 46% of the field – a three-percentage-point increase from 2025. According to Thomas Delpeuch, director of public events at ASO (Amaury Sport Organisation), the organizers of the Paris Half Marathon, this represents an 11-point increase over four years, bringing the race closer to gender parity.
Beyond the competitive aspect, the Paris Half Marathon is deeply rooted in community and charitable giving. Approximately 5,000 runners will be participating on behalf of various associations, having collectively raised 1.2 million euros for 110 different charities. “Running is solid for your health, and if you can do it for a good cause, that’s even better,” emphasizes Delpeuch. “It’s something that increasingly resonates with participants.”
The competitive field is expected to be strong, with Kenyan runners Kennedy Kimutai and Jackline Cherono favored to repeat their success from previous years. Kenya has dominated the Paris Half Marathon since 1993, securing 22 victories in 32 editions.
The Paris Half Marathon isn’t just a race; it’s a celebration of running, community, and the spirit of the city. With a record number of participants and a course that showcases the best of Paris, the 2026 edition promises to be an unforgettable event.
The race begins on Boulevard Saint-Germain and finishes at Place de la Bastille. Runners will navigate through the Bois de Vincennes, experiencing both the urban energy and natural beauty of Paris.
As runners prepare to seize their marks on March 8th, the Paris Half Marathon stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of road racing and the power of sport to bring people together.
