The Marathon de Bordeaux AG2R La Mondiale is one of France’s newest major city marathons, marking the highly anticipated return of the marathon distance to Bordeaux after a seven-year absence. While Bordeaux has long been home to a hugely successful half marathon and 10K, the full marathon returns in 2026 with an ambitious new vision, offering runners the opportunity to experience one of Europe’s most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage cities on foot. Organized through a partnership between one of France’s premier athletics clubs and one of the world’s leading mass-participation event organizers, the race is designed to become a flagship autumn marathon on the French running calendar.
The course showcases the very best of Bordeaux’s historic architecture, vibrant riverfront, and elegant boulevards. Runners travel along the scenic banks of the Garonne River, cross the city’s iconic bridges, and pass many of Bordeaux’s best-known landmarks, including the magnificent Place de la Bourse, the Chartrons district, and the city’s celebrated historic center. Designed to be both scenic and fast, the route combines broad avenues with lively spectator zones, making it equally appealing to runners chasing a personal best and those looking to immerse themselves in one of France’s great cultural destinations.