The World Mountain Running Association (WMRA) has officially approved its 2026–2030 Strategy, setting a clear direction to further develop the sport and expand its global reach in the coming years.

The new strategy is a result of extensive discussion within the Council as well as consultation with key industry stakeholders and was formally approved at the most recent WMRA Council meeting on 1^st April 2026.

Here you can access the official WMRA Strategy 2026–2030 document.

At the heart of the strategy is a simple and ambitious vision: more people running responsibly in the mountains, supported by a mission to support, develop and inspire mountain runners at all stages of their athletics journey.

The newly approved framework defines the key priorities that will guide WMRA’s work over the next four years, structured around four central delivery pillars:

• Enhancing the athlete experience
• Education and inspiration
• Promotion, activation and partnerships
• Provision of technical and safety expertise

Together, these pillars reinforce WMRA’s role not only as a global competition organiser, but as a leading authority shaping the future of mountain running.

“This strategy provides a clear and unified direction for our sport,” said Sarah Rowell, President of WMRA. “Our focus is on supporting athletes at every stage of their journey, while continuing to grow mountain running responsibly and sustainably across the world.”

A central component of the strategy is the continued development of the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup, ensuring it delivers the highest standards of athlete experience and global visibility. At the same time, WMRA will continue to invest in the next generation of athletes through initiatives such as the International U18 Mountain Running Cup, while strengthening pathways from youth to masters competition.

The strategy also highlights the importance of collaboration, with WMRA committed to working closely with World Athletics and other key partners to ensure that the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships continue to grow as the premier global event for elite mountain runners.

Beyond competition, WMRA will expand its educational initiatives, creating resources for member federations, athletes, coaches, and technical staff. The organisation will also continue to develop its expertise in safety and technical standards, maintaining its position as a global reference in mountain running.

A further delivery goal is the continued development of the WMRA World Ranking alongside the continued growth of partnerships with aligned organisations to support the long-term sustainability of the sport.

Underlying all areas of the strategy are WMRA’s core values of Respect, Trust, Partnership, and Responsibility, which will guide its actions and decisions throughout the 2026–2030 cycle.

With this strategy in place, WMRA reaffirms its commitment to shaping the future of mountain running — supporting athletes, strengthening global structures, and promoting the sport to new audiences worldwide.

IN MOUNTAIN RUNNING WE TRUST.

With fewer than 60 days remaining before the opening race of the season, the World Mountain Running Association (WMRA) is pleased to confirm the official partners of the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup 2026.

The WMRA Mountain Running World Cup 2026 brings this year a global calendar, spanning 10 events in 10 countries across four continents, and comprising 16 races across the three recognised mountain running disciplines: Uphill, Classic Up & Down, and Long Distance.

Over the course of 27 years, the World Cup has transformed from a European-based Grand Prix into a global competitive circuit under the recognition of World Athletics. Its journey closely reflects the sport’s own development, growing from regional beginnings into an international series shaped by diverse environments, cultures and racing identities.

The 2026 season will begin on 19 April in Portugal with the São Brás Cross, launching a World Cup that reflects both the deep traditions of the sport and its continued international growth. As preparations enter their final phase, the confirmation of key partners marks an important milestone for the series.

For the 2026 edition, the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup is supported by the following partners:

• Valsir S.p.A
• Turismo Centro de Portugal – Title Sponsor of the “Classic Up & Down” category.

Together, these partners support the World Cup’s mission to promote mountain running worldwide while respecting the diversity of landscapes, cultures and communities that shape the sport.

Valsir was founded in 1987 in Valle Sabbia, Italy, with a clear industrial vision: to engineer advanced HVAC and plumbing systems for the global building and construction sector. The company provides all stakeholders with innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, reliability and long-term sustainability throughout their work.

Today, Valsir is part of the Silmar Group, a leading industrial holding with a turnover exceeding €1.5 billion and more than 3,500 employees worldwide. Combining global reach with deep roots in Valle Sabbia – the industrial heart where its vision was born in the seventies and where long-term development continues under the guidance of the Niboli family – Valsir remains committed to innovation, quality and reliability, the values that have shaped its growth and global presence.

Valsir’s involvement in the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup reflects a shared commitment to consistency, fairness and high organisational standards. These values resonate strongly with a global circuit that requires precision, trust and reliability at every level — from course design and safety to athlete support and international coordination.

Beyond its role as a World Cup sponsor, Valsir is also deeply embedded in the sport through its direct involvement as the root organiser of the Trofeo Nasego and Vertical Nasego, two cornerstone events of the World Cup calendar. These races have become reference points within their respective disciplines, combining high-level competition with strong local identity and organisational continuity.

Mountain running is a discipline built on trust — trust in the terrain, in the organisation, and in the systems that support athletes across challenging environments. This philosophy closely mirrors Valsir’s own approach, making its long-term support a natural and coherent fit within the World Cup’s global framework.

Mattia Gandini, Head of Marketing Valsir commented:

“Heritage and tradition are central to who we are at Valsir, shaped by the values of Val Sabbia, where our story began. Supporting mountain running, and in particular events such as Trofeo Nasego and Vertical Nasego, reflects our deep connection to the territory, to endurance and to the continuity between past and future that defines both our company and this sport.”

Turismo Centro de Portugal joins the 2026 World Cup as Title Sponsor of all Classic Up & Down races, reinforcing Portugal’s historic and ongoing role within international mountain running.

The connection between the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup and Centro de Portugal was first established through the Montemuro Vertical Run in Castro Daire, which featured in the World Cup calendar across three previous editions. Those events marked the beginning of a strong and enduring relationship, highlighting the region’s authenticity, organisational quality and natural suitability for elite mountain running. Since then, the World Cup has continued to strengthen its bond with the area.

The Classic Up & Down discipline represents the most traditional expression of the sport, combining ascent and descent in a single race and rewarding complete mountain running ability. Centro de Portugal, with its varied terrain, strong local running culture and proven experience in hosting international competition, provides a fitting and trusted platform for this discipline.

As host region of the 2026 season opener, Centro de Portugal stands at the symbolic gateway of the World Cup — linking the sport’s heritage with its modern, international format and reaffirming a partnership that has grown organically through shared experience and mutual trust.

Rui Ventura, President of Turismo Centro de Portugal, said: “Centro de Portugal offers an exceptional natural setting for mountain running, with diverse terrain, strong local expertise and a long-standing outdoor culture that aligns perfectly with the values of the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup. Hosting World Cup races allows us to showcase these landscapes and communities through an international sporting platform, while the World Cup itself brings visibility, credibility and long-term value to the region. This partnership is a genuine exchange, where the identity of Centro de Portugal strengthens the World Cup, and the global reach of the World Cup, in turn, contributes to the sustainable promotion of our territory.”

The WMRA Mountain Running World Cup 2026 brings together athletes, organisers and partners around a shared set of values: promoting mountain running, sporting integrity, respect for diverse environments and people, international cooperation and the sustainable development of mountain running and its community

Jonathan Wyatt, WMRA Mountain Running World Cup Manager, added:

“Finding the right partnerships is always a complex process, as it requires maintaining the delicate balance between business and the soul of the sport. In this case, we firmly believe that the essence of mountain running is not only safeguarded but strengthened by partners who understand its heritage, its values and its long-term vision.
The WMRA have enhanced it’s offering in the World Cup in 2026 thanks to the support of our partners.  Increased prize money and athletes travel support giving runners international racing opportunities as well as anti-doping support using trusted providers has now given the WMRA World Cup a strong and healthy outlook.”

With 10 events, 16 races and three recognised disciplines — Uphill, Classic Up & Down and Long Distance — the World Cup continues its evolution from a European Grand Prix into a truly global competitive circuit, endorsed by World Athletics and supported by partners who share its long-term vision.

IN MOUNTAIN RUNNING WE TRUST.

The next generation of mountain running talent will gather in southern Italy on 21 June 2026, when Gagliano del Capo (Lecce) hosts the 19th International U18 Mountain Running Cup, one of the most important international competitions dedicated to youth mountain running.

Organised under the auspices of the World Mountain Running Association (WMRA) in collaboration with Italian Athletics (FIDAL) and the local organising committee Atletica Capo di Leuca, the event continues a long-standing tradition of providing young athletes with their first opportunity to compete internationally against peers from across the globe.

The International U18 Mountain Running Cup has long been recognised as a key development platform for young mountain runners. For many athletes, it represents their first opportunity to wear the national team colours and compete against the best runners of their age from around the world.

Over the years, numerous athletes who first appeared at the U18 Cup have gone on to become World Cup winners, World Championship medallists and leading figures in mountain and trail running, making the competition a true gateway to the sport’s highest levels.

The 2026 event follows two strong recent editions that have helped reinforce the International U18 Mountain Running Cup as a key meeting point for the world’s most promising young mountain runners.

In Palencia, Spain, the competition brought together emerging athletes from a wide range of countries, highlighting the continued growth of youth mountain running and the increasing level of competition among national development programmes.

The following edition in Donovaly, Slovakia, offered another memorable chapter in the history of the event. Set in the spectacular Low Tatras mountains, the championship tested young athletes on a demanding mountain course and produced exciting racing across both categories. Athletes from numerous nations competed closely throughout the event, underlining how widely the sport is developing among the next generation of mountain runners.

The Donovaly races also showcased the diversity of talent emerging in mountain running, with strong performances across both the individual and team classifications. For many competitors, the event represented their first experience racing internationally in national colours — an opportunity that often marks the beginning of a pathway toward future success in senior mountain and trail running.

With each new edition, the International U18 Mountain Running Cup continues to strengthen the global mountain running community. It provides young athletes with the chance not only to compete at a high level, but also to meet peers from around the world, exchange experiences and build friendships that reflect the unique spirit of the sport.

The 2026 International U18 Mountain Running Cup will take place in Gagliano del Capo, a small town in the province of Lecce in southern Italy, located at the southern end of the Salento peninsula. Surrounded by rolling hills that descend towards the Adriatic Sea, the area offers a striking mix of Mediterranean landscapes, limestone cliffs and coastal scenery, providing a unique backdrop for international mountain running.

Part of the surrounding territory lies within the Otranto–Santa Maria di Leuca and Tricase Coast and Forest Regional Natural Park, a protected area known for its rugged coastline, caves and rich biodiversity, making it one of the most distinctive natural environments in the region.

The championship races will be staged in the spectacular Ciolo area, where athletes will compete on a 4.6 km loop course featuring 191 metres of ascent and descent. The route combines a variety of surfaces — including mountain paths, dirt roads, grassy sections and short stretches of asphalt — creating a dynamic course that reflects the diverse terrain of mountain running. Both start and finish will be located in the same area, offering spectators an excellent view of the action as the world’s best young mountain runners battle for the titles.

Tito Tiberti, WMRA Secretary and Race Director of the event, added:
“Bringing young runners from all over the world in the WMRA International U18 Mountain Running Cup means moving athletics from the track to the trail for a while: hosting girls and boys running in environmentally stunning scenarios means investing in their athletics journey and supporting them developing both the values of sport and their love for mountains. In Gagliano del Capo everything is going to be unique and inspirational: true mountain trails on cliffs at the seaside, our young future champions fairly competing, either younger competitors or master athletes gathered at Trofeo Ciolo showing strength, ability and passion.”

The 19th International U18 Mountain Running Cup will take place across a full competition weekend in Gagliano del Capo, bringing together young athletes and national teams from around the world.

Friday 19 June 2026
Arrival of the delegations, transfer to Gagliano del Capo, hotel accommodation and accreditation
09:30 – 11:30 Training at the competition venue / on the course
17:30 – 18:30 Training at the competition venue / on the course

Saturday 20 June 2026
Arrival of delegations, transfer to Gagliano del Capo, hotel accommodation and accreditation
09:30 – 11:30 Course inspection
16:30 Technical Meeting
18:00 Opening Ceremony
20:00 Welcome Dinner

Sunday 21 June 2026
08:30 Mass Race (Trofeo Ciolo)
10:00 National U16 Trophy races
11:00 U18 Girls race
11:30 U18 Boys race
12:15 Medal Ceremonies
20:00 Closing Ceremony and Party

Monday 22 June 2026
Departure of the delegations

Event website: https://atleticacapodileuca.it/19-international-u18mountain-running-cup/

The World Mountain Running Association (WMRA), in collaboration with the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), is proud to announce the launch of the first-ever anti-doping education initiative specifically designed for mountain running athletes.

This milestone initiative marks a significant step forward in strengthening integrity within the sport, aligning mountain running with the highest international standards set by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

The initial online session, in April, will be followed by the distribution of E-Info materials on anti-doping to all runners. This will be complemented by an in-person session during the weekend of Sierre-Zinal, where athletes will have the opportunity to meet AIU representatives face-to-face. An extended session will also be organised for coaches and managers over the same weekend.

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), operating independently on behalf of World Athletics, is responsible for safeguarding the integrity of athletics worldwide. Its role includes:

• Managing anti-doping testing programmes
• Conducting results management and disciplinary procedures
• Delivering education to athletes and stakeholders

In alignment with WADA, the global authority setting anti-doping rules and standards, the AIU ensures that mountain running adheres fully to the World Anti-Doping Code, guaranteeing fairness, transparency, and consistency across all competitions.

For over 42 years, WMRA has built mountain running on the fundamental principle of fair play. From its origins in 1984, the sport has been defined not only by athletic performance but by respect for rules, competitors, and the natural environment.  But this  commitment to integrity is not only philosophical — it is embedded in the competition rules that govern every race.

Clear regulations ensure that all athletes compete under equal conditions, protecting both performance and safety:

• Race Conduct (57.6):
  Athletes who leave the marked course, receive unauthorized assistance (such as pacing or external refreshments), or fail to comply with race regulations may face disqualification or penalties.
• Race Finish (57.7):
  Transparency is ensured at the finish line, with athletes informed in advance whether ties are permitted, safeguarding fairness in race outcomes.
• Race Interference (57.8):
  Race organisers must guarantee that media, camera runners, and the public do not interfere or provide any competitive advantage. All accredited personnel must remain clearly identifiable and positioned appropriately to preserve race integrity.

These rules reflect a broader principle: performance must always be the result of the athlete alone.

Furthermore, the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup reinvests 30% of each race’s fee directly into anti-doping efforts, supporting testing programmes at every event and reinforcing a clean and credible competition environment.

This joint WMRA–AIU initiative represents a proactive approach: not only enforcing rules, but educating athletes to make informed and responsible decisions.

By addressing topics such as supplement risks, medication compliance, and testing procedures, the programme empowers athletes to protect both their careers and the integrity of the sport.

Jonathan Wyatt, WMRA World Cup Manager “Mountain running is unique in its spirit, but the standards we uphold must be as strong as any global sport. Investing significantly in anti-doping and now delivering tailored education through the AIU ensures that every athlete competes on equal terms, from the first race of the season in Portugal to the finals in Canada.”

With this initiative, WMRA reinforces its alignment with World Athletics and WADA protocols, ensuring that mountain running continues to evolve as a credible, transparent, and globally respected discipline.

The launch of this dedicated education programme is not just a milestone — it is a clear statement: clean sport is not optional; it is the foundation of mountain running.

With sixty days remaining before the opening race, the World Mountain Running Association (WMRA) enters the final phase of preparations for the Mountain Running World Cup  2026 — a season that reflects the sport’s continued global growth and competitive evolution.

The 27th edition of the World Cup will begin on 19 April 2026 with the São Brás Cross in Portugal, launching a circuit that spans four continents, ten countries, and sixteen races across three disciplines: Uphill, Classic Up & Down, and Long Distance.

Over nearly three decades, the WMRA World Cup has evolved from a European-based Grand Prix into a fully international competitive series operating under the recognition of World Athletics. The 2026 season further consolidates that transformation, combining established historic races with globally recognised modern venues.

The 2026 calendar connects diverse mountain environments and racing traditions across Europe, Asia, North America and beyond.

The season opens in Portugal with the São Brás Cross (Classic Up & Down), a 10.9 km course featuring approximately 628 metres of ascent and descent — a race that rewards balance, rhythm and efficiency in both climbing and downhill running.

One week later, the World Cup moves to China. The Beijing Changping Yanshou Trail Challenge hosts an Uphill race set against the mountainous landscape surrounding the Great Wall, followed by a demanding Classic Up & Down race (18 km / 1,275 m +/−) in the Silver Mountain Pagoda Forest.

In May, the circuit reaches the Canary Islands for the Transvulcania weekend in La Palma. The Uphill race climbs 1,248 metres over 7.3 km across volcanic terrain, while the 25 km +2,000 Long Distance race tests endurance across the island’s ridgelines and exposed sections.

North America hosts two key races at Broken Arrow event in PalisadesTahoe. Athletes will compete in the Ascent (5.8 km / 865 m) and the Broken Arrow Skyrace Long Distance event. Organisers have announced a total prize purse of $150,000, with $30,000 awarded to the winners of the 23 km race.

July brings the Grossglockner Mountain Run (Austria) — 13.3 km / 1,300 m +/− beneath Austria’s highest mountain — followed by the Vauban Mountain Trail in Briançon, France, combining technical climbing and descending across UNESCO-listed fortifications.

The second half of the season brings together some of mountain running’s most iconic and established races. Sierre-Zinal (Switzerland) marks its 52nd edition, reaffirming its status as one of the sport’s most prestigious long-distance events. In Italy, Trofeo Nasego (20.6 km / 1,300 m+) complements the Vertical Nasego, forming one of the most technically demanding weekends on the calendar. The Long Distance discipline will reach its conclusion in Poland at Maraton Trzech Jezior, which will serve as the decisive World Cup final for the Long Distance standings.

The 2026 World Cup concludes in Canada at Mont-Sainte-Anne (Québec). The MSA Vertical (5 km / 800 m+) and the Classic Up & Down final (11 km / 800 m +/−) mark the first time the World Cup visits Canada, closing the season in a venue internationally recognised for mountain sports.

The WMRA’s international reach is powered by strong partnerships. The Valsir S.p.A. industrial group continues its long‑term commitment to the World Cup. Founded in Italy in 1987, Valsir is now part of the Silmar Group and has over 3 500 employees worldwide. Its experience in engineering reliable systems mirrors the trust and consistency required in mountain running, and the company is also the organiser of Trofeo Nasego and Vertical Nasego.

Turismo Centro de Portugal serves as the Title Sponsor of the Classic Up & Down discipline, underscoring the region’s long‑standing role in hosting and promoting mountain running. Centro de Portugal hosted the Montemuro Vertical Run in previous seasons and will again welcome the World Cup opener at São Brás. A major Chinese partner is expected to be announced soon, adding another exciting chapter to this global story.

For the first time in the World Cup’s 27‑year history, each discipline will have its own prize fund. Dedicated category prize money will be awarded for the Uphill, Classic Up & Down and Long‑Distance categories. The WMRA estimates total prize money of approximately €250 000, with €50 000 earmarked for discipline and final awards. This category prize money complements the existing overall awards to the top 10 men and top 10 women.

The WMRA also invests heavily in clean sport. Up to 30 % of every race’s registration fees will be reinvested into anti‑doping controls to ensure that testing is conducted at every World Cup race. Increased travel support, made possible by the series’ partners, will assist athletes from all regions in reaching races worldwide.

With the strongest fields in recent memory, the 2026 World Cup promises tight battles across all disciplines. Looking at the top‑10 overall finishers from the 2024 and 2025 seasons, several names stand out as likely contenders:

• Philemon Ombogo Kiriago (KEN- Run2gether -On) – The 2025 World Cup champion secured his title with a record‑breaking win at Smarna Gora and consistently placed near the top throughout the year. His explosive climbing and descending make him a favourite in both classic and long races.
• Paul Machoka (KEN- Atletica Saluzzo- Nnormal) – Runner‑up in 2025 and fourth overall in 2024, Machoka’s steady performances across disciplines suggest he could push for the overall title.
• Richard Omaya Atuya (KEN- Run2gether -On) and Michael Selelo Saoli (KEN- Run2gether -On) – Both men finished in the top five in 2024 and remained in contention in 2025. Their versatility across vertical and long courses will be key.
• Andrea Elia (ITA- ASD La Recastello | Topo Athletic Italia) and Lukas Ehrle (GER- ASICS) – As leading Europeans in 2025, they bring technical precision on alpine courses and could capitalise on the European leg of the calendar.
• Scout Adkin (GBR- HOKA EU) – The women’s World Cup champion in both 2024 and 2025, Adkin is renowned for her consistency and her ability to excel in every discipline.
• Valentine Jepkoech Rutto (KEN- Atletica Saluzzo) and Gloria Chebet (KEN- Run2gether) – Finishing second and third overall in 2025, they demonstrated powerful uphill running and race‑winning speed.
• Joyce Muthoni Njeru (KEN- Nnormal) and Philaries Jeruto Kisang (KEN Run2gether) – Runner‑up and third in the 2024 standings, both remain dangerous contenders.
• Andrea Mayr (AUT) – A multiple world champion and frequent winner at Vertical Nasego, Mayr’s experience and climbing prowess continue to make her a threat.
• North American contenders – With the World Cup returning to North America, expect strong showings from Remi Leroux (CAN- Brooks), Tyler McCandless (USA),  Christian Allen (USA- ACG), Meikael Beaudoin Rousseau (CAN- Brooks), who finished in the men’s top 10 in 2024, and from rising stars Courtney Coppinger (USA- Brooks) and Anna Gibson (USA- Brooks), who made headlines with podium finishes in 2025. The generous prize purse and home‑crowd support at Palisade Tahoe could give U.S. athletes an edge.

The depth of talent across Africa, Europe, North America and Asia means that the 2026 titles may not be decided until the final race in Canada. With new category prizes, travel support and an expanded global calendar, the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup is poised for its most compelling season yet.

In just sixty days the world’s best mountain runners will converge in Portugal to begin a season that spans ten countries and offers over 240 000 € in prize money. Fans—especially those in North America—should mark their calendars for the June Broken Arrow weekend and the October Canadian finals, which promise dramatic racing and festive atmospheres. Stay tuned to WMRA channels for live coverage and updates as the mountains decide the champions of 2026.

IN MOUNTAIN RUNNING WE TRUST.

This weekend, 6-8 February, the World Mountain Running Association (WMRA) Council met in person for the first time since the elections in Canfranc in September 2025. 

The meeting marked an important milestone for an organization, spending time to reflect and develop the organization’s strategy 2026-2030, building on the 42 years of service to the sport. Founded in 1984 as the ICMR (International Committee for Mountain Running), the Association formally became WMRA following the 1998 Congress in Île de la Réunion, recognising its growing global role and responsibilities.

The meeting brought together the WMRA Council for the 2025–2029 term:

• Sarah Rowell (Great Britain) — President
• Tito Tiberti (Italy) — Seretary
• Stéphane Sclavo (France) — Treasurer
• John Bowden (New Zealand) — Council Member
• Jason Bryant (United States) — Council Member
• Omar Hernández (Spain) — Council Member
• Marcel Matanin (Slovakia) — Council Member

Together, the Council brings experience across continents, competitive levels and organisational roles, reflecting the increasingly international scope of the discipline.

The in-person meeting spent time discussing and agreeing the revised Vison and Misson for WMRA, creating the new strategy for the Association for the next four years

which will be published in the coming period. 

Central to these deliberations remains the WMRA’s role:

• To promote and develop mountain running worldwide, supporting its development across continents, cultures, and competitive levels.
• To stage international mountain running events and Championships, including working with partners – World Athletics, the International Trail Running Association (ITRA) and the International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU) to deliver the biannual World Mountain and Trail Running Championships (WMTRC); and the World Masters Association to deliver the World Masters Mountain Running Championships.
• To act as the technical experts for mountain running, supporting the work of World Athletics and others in developing the discipline.

This strategic work reflects WMRA’s intention to align governance, competition delivery and technical expertise with the evolving needs of the sport.

Building on the momentum of the Council meeting, WMRA representatives will continue discussions this week in Monaco, with key meetings scheduled alongside World Athletics, ITRA, IAU, and the Athletics Integrity Unit.

These exchanges aim to strengthen institutional partnerships, explore new development pathways, and ensure that mountain and trail running continues to offer the highest standards of integrity, opportunity, and athlete support worldwide.

A timely moment to reconnect, align priorities, and continue building the next chapter of WMRA — together.

The WMRA Mountain Running World Cup 2026 brings together a truly global calendar, spanning 10 events in 10 countries across four continents, and comprising 16 races across the three recognised mountain running disciplines: Uphill, Classic Up & Down, and Long Distance.

With 27 years of history, the World Cup has evolved from its origins as a European Grand Prix into today’s fully international competitive circuit, operating with the endorsement and support of World Athletics. Over nearly three decades, it has mirrored the evolution of mountain running itself — from its early European roots to a modern global series connecting cultures, landscapes and racing traditions.

With less than 90 days to go before the opening race of the 2026 season, the World Cup will get underway on 19 April in Portugal, marking the start of another truly international mountain running campaign.

This is the third, and final, press release in the discipline series, focusing on the Long Distance discipline to continue with the full overview of the 2026 World Cup calendar.

The Classic Up & Down discipline represents the most traditional and recognisable form of mountain running. Races are characterised by a single main ascent followed by a descent, demanding a complete skill set that combines climbing strength, downhill efficiency, technical control and tactical awareness.

In line with World Athletics mountain running guidelines, Classic Up & Down races typically range between 8 km and 18 km, with a significant vertical component and continuous variation in gradient and terrain. These races reward athletes capable of excelling both uphill and downhill, making versatility a defining factor.

Within the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup, the Classic Up & Down discipline forms the historic backbone of the series, directly linking the modern circuit to the sport’s earliest international competitions.

For the first time in its 27-year history, the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup will award dedicated category prize money for each discipline:

• Uphill
• Classic Up & Down
• Long Distance

This marks a major evolution of the World Cup structure, recognising discipline-specific excellence alongside the traditional overall standings.

Category prize money is paid in addition to the overall World Cup awards. Across the full series, total prize money amounts to approximately €250,000, of which €50,000 is allocated by the WMRA to category and final prizes.

The World Mountain Running Association (WMRA) has confirmed the return of the World Cup to China in 2026, with Beijing’s Changping District set to host one of the most visually striking and internationally significant stops on the calendar.

The WMRA Mountain Running World Cup 2026 brings together a truly global calendar, spanning 10 events in 10 countries across four continents, and comprising 16 races across the three recognised mountain running disciplines: Uphill, Classic Up & Down, and Long Distance.

The World Mountain Running Association, the Chinese Mountaineering Association, and Beijing Radio & Television Station in the official launch in Beijing, January 2026.

The Chinese stage will be held in the mountains north of the Chinese capital, the Changping event will combine elite-level mountain running, iconic global landmarks, and a rapidly growing Asian running community — reinforcing China’s strategic importance in the worldwide development of the sport.

The event will host two World Cup races across two days and is expected to welcome athletes from more than 20 nations, underlining the World Cup’s continued evolution into a truly global series.

Few World Cup venues offer a setting as distinctive as Changping.

Located in the eastern Yanshan Mountains, the district combines high forest coverage, rugged mountain terrain and professionally adaptable trail systems with some of China’s most significant historical sites.

Athletes will race:

• on the slopes of the Great Wall at Juyongguan, a symbol recognised worldwide
• through the Silver Mountain Pagoda Forest, home to the largest surviving collection of Liao Dynasty pagodas
• within reach of the Ming Dynasty Imperial Tombs, one of China’s most important cultural landscapes

This rare fusion of elite sport and cultural heritage creates a World Cup experience that goes beyond competition — connecting performance, place and history in a way few venues can match.

The Changping World Cup will be delivered in close cooperation with experienced local partners, ensuring world-class standards for athletes, media and spectators.

Key advantages include:

• venue access just 60 minutes from Beijing Capital International Airport
• official host hotels close to race start areas
• dedicated training trails near athlete accommodation
• professional race operations, media facilities and anti-doping procedures

Together, these elements ensure a seamless World Cup experience, meeting the expectations of the world’s best mountain runners.

The 2026 Changping World Cup weekend is expected to attract elite athletes from over 20 countries, spanning Europe, the Americas, Africa and Asia, alongside a large mass-participation field of more than 2,000 runners across the event week.

This international mix lies at the heart of the WMRA World Cup concept:

• giving Asian athletes access to top-level competition on home soil
• encouraging global participation and athlete exchange
• raising the competitive standard across continents

Elite athletes will be hosted under full World Cup conditions, with accommodation, airport transfers and race logistics provided by the organisers, ensuring a professional and athlete-focused experience.

Traditionally centred in Europe, the WMRA World Cup has steadily expanded its footprint across new regions. Changping represents a cornerstone of the World Cup’s Asian expansion, aligning with the WMRA’s long-term vision of a balanced, multi-continental series.

This expansion aims to:

• broaden athlete pathways beyond Europe
• strengthen global rankings and competition depth
• bring mountain running to new audiences and landscapes

With China firmly on the 2026 calendar, the World Cup continues its transformation into a championship series that reflects the global nature of the sport.

The World Masters Mountain Running Championships 2026 (WMMRC) continue to build momentum as preparations progress in the Czech Republic, with the official championship centre confirmed in the spa town of Janské Lázně, located in the heart of Europe and surrounded by the iconic Krkonoše Mountains.

Following the strong legacy and competitive spirit carried forward from Meduno 2025, the 2026 Championships promise a technically demanding and atmospherically rich event, combining classic mountain running formats with Central Europe’s long-standing tradition in athletics and outdoor sport.

The World Masters Mountain Running Championships 2026 are organised by TJ Maratonstav Úpice, with the support of the towns of Janské Lázně and Úpice, the Hradec Králové Region, and the Czech Athletics Federation.

The Organising Committee warmly invites masters athletes and national federations from around the world to take part in this unique championship event. The World Masters Mountain Running Championships 2026 aim to deliver not only high-level competition, but also an inspiring and unforgettable weekend defined by athletic achievement, friendship, and true international spirit. We look forward to welcoming the global masters community to the Krkonoše Mountains in June 2026

Janské Lázně offers an ideal setting for the World Masters Mountain Running Championships, combining compact logistics, a wide range of accommodation options, and immediate access to high-quality mountain terrain. Known for its spa heritage and outdoor infrastructure, the town provides excellent conditions for athletes, team managers, supporters, and accompanying guests.

All races will be centred around the town colonnade area, ensuring easy access to start and finish zones while maintaining a compact, spectator-friendly championship atmosphere.

The 2026 programme features three classic World Masters Mountain Running Championship races:

• Uphill: Approx. 7 km with ~770 m D+, starting Friday, 26 June 2026 at 13:00. A steep, sustained climb from the colonnade area to Černá hora, tailored for pure uphill specialists.
• Long Distance: Approx. 22 km with ~1,200 m D+, starting Saturday, 27 June 2026 at 08:30. A classic mountain long-distance course on varied terrain, starting and finishing at the town colonnade.
• Up & Down: Approx. 3 km with ~550 m D+, starting Sunday, 28 June 2026 at 09:00. A fast and technical loop combining climbs and descents, rewarding efficient pacing and confident downhill running.

All three races take place around the town center to simplify transfers, support team logistics, and maximise the championship atmosphere for athletes and supporters.

The official WMMRC 2026 website is live, providing full race details, schedules, maps and GPX files, accommodation information, and local guidance:
https://wmmrc2026.maratonstav.cz/en

Athlete registration is open via the official entry platform:
https://registrace2.onlinesystem.cz/detail/event/068ad46d-c1cb-4a45-b5e4-084ef55e363c

A tiered entry-fee structure applies, with reduced rates for early registration and additional discounts for athletes entering multiple races. Early entry is strongly recommended to secure preferred pricing and support national team planning. A continuously updated entry list will keep athletes, team managers, and federations informed as delegations submit their rosters.

The WMRA Mountain Running World Cup 2026 brings together a truly global calendar, spanning 10 events in 10 countries across four continents*, and comprising 16 races across the three recognised mountain running disciplines: Uphill, Classic Up & Down, and Long Distance.

With 27 years of history, the World Cup has evolved from its origins as a European Grand Prix into today’s fully international competitive circuit, operating with the endorsement and support of World Athletics. Over nearly three decades, it has mirrored the evolution of mountain running itself — from its early European roots to a modern global series connecting cultures, landscapes and racing traditions.

With less than 90 days to go before the opening race of the 2026 season, the World Cup will get underway on 19 April in Portugal, marking the start of another truly international mountain running campaign.

This is the second press release in the discipline series, focusing on the Long Distance discipline to continue with the full overview of the 2026 World Cup calendar.

The Long Distance discipline represents the endurance-based category of mountain running within the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup. Races are designed to test sustained aerobic capacity, pacing strategy and terrain management over extended distances.

In accordance with mountain running guidelines, Long Distance races range from 22 km to 45 km. Courses may include a combination of uphill and downhill sections, or may be designed as predominantly uphill courses, depending on the natural terrain and race concept. As a general technical reference, average elevation gain typically ranges between 80 and 120 metres per kilometre.

Long Distance races place emphasis on endurance, efficiency and consistency, requiring athletes to manage prolonged physical effort across varied mountain terrain.

Within the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup, the Long Distance discipline forms a core structural element of the series, connecting historic reference races with modern international events and ensuring a globally consistent competitive framework.

VOLCANIC ENDURANCE IN THE ATLANTIC
Transvulcania — Long

The Long Distance discipline opens in Spain at Transvulcania, staged on the Canary Island of La Palma.

Since its creation in 2009, Transvulcania has become one of the most internationally recognised mountain and trail running events, known for its demanding volcanic terrain and strong global participation.

The island’s dramatic landscapes — shaped by lava flows, sharp ridgelines and Atlantic exposure — give the race a unique identity and make it a natural opening act for the World Cup long-distance season.

More info: https://transvulcania.com/en/

HIGH-ALPINE LONG DISTANCE IN NORTH AMERICA

Broken Arrow Skyrace — Long

From the Atlantic, the World Cup moves to North America for the Broken Arrow Long race, held in Olympic Valley, Lake Tahoe (USA).

Founded in 2016, Broken Arrow has rapidly established itself as a benchmark alpine event, designed to bring European-style mountain racing to North America while maintaining a strong community focus.

Set in a high-altitude environment with extensive racing above treeline, the long course demands endurance, technical skill and adaptability to changing mountain conditions.

A LEGEND OF THE SPORT

Sierre-Zinal — Long —  52nd edition in 2026

The long-distance calendar continues in Switzerland with Sierre-Zinal, widely regarded as one of the most historic and prestigious mountain races in the world.

First held in 1974, the 2026 edition marks the 52nd running of this iconic event. Set in the Valais Alps and often referred to as “the race of the five 4,000-metre peaks”, Sierre-Zinal combines a fast, runnable profile with sustained climbing.

For generations, Sierre-Zinal has attracted the strongest international fields in mountain running, making it a cornerstone of the World Cup and a direct link to the sport’s deepest competitive heritage.

More info: https://www.sierre-zinal.com/en/homepage.html

ITALIAN ENDURANCE AND MODERN TRADITION

Trofeo Nasego — Long

In early September, the World Cup returns to Italy for Trofeo Nasego, the long-distance race of the Nasego Mountain Running weekend in Casto (Val Sabbia).

Trofeo Nasego complements Vertical Nasego by testing athletes across a longer and more complex course, rewarding endurance, control and tactical awareness.
With a distance of approximately 20.6 km and over 1,300 metres of ascent, the race showcases the demanding terrain of the Italian pre-Alps.

In recent years, Nasego has become a reference venue within the World Cup, offering a rare opportunity to highlight multiple disciplines at the same location.

More information: https://www.trofeonasegocorsainmontagna.com/en/home-2/

A DECISIVE SEASON FINALE

Maraton Trzech Jezior — World Cup Final Long

The Long Distance discipline concludes in Poland with Maraton Trzech Jezior, host of the World Cup Final — Long Distance.

Set in the Beskids Lakes District, the race combines forested hills, lakeside trails and sustained climbs, creating a demanding and tactical setting for the season’s decisive race.

As the World Cup Final, it places emphasis on consistency across the season, with the long-distance standings determined on Polish soil.

More information: https://www.maraton3jezior.com/en/

For the first time in its 27-year history, the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup will award dedicated category prize money for each discipline:

• Uphill
• Classic Up & Down
• Long Distance

This marks a major evolution of the World Cup structure, recognising discipline-specific excellence alongside the traditional overall standings.

Category prize money is paid in addition to the overall World Cup awards. Across the full series, total prize money amounts to approximately €250,000, of which €50,000 is allocated by the WMRA to category and final prizes.

The WMRA also maintains its long-standing commitment to clean sport, reinvesting up to 30% of each race’s registration fees into anti-doping controls, ensuring testing at every World Cup event.

From the volcanic terrain of La Palma to the high alpine environment of Lake Tahoe, through the historic Swiss Alps, the Italian pre-Alps and a decisive final in Poland, the Long Distance discipline of the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup 2026 reflects the diversity, depth and global reach of mountain running.

Together, these races form a long-distance circuit that honours the sport’s past while defining its future.

The WMRA Mountain Running World Cup 2026 is more international, more competitive and more ambitious than ever. With new prize structures, increased visibility and a calendar stretching across oceans and mountains, the 2026 season honours the sport’s heritage while driving it decisively into the future.

IN MOUNTAIN RUNNING WE TRUST.