Race Across Paris 2026: Course, distances and new features - Race Across Series ultra-cycling

Race Across Paris begins the Race Across ultra-cycling season each spring, bringing riders together near Chantilly for the first significant challenge following winter. Although it carries the Paris name, the event uses loops across northern France, with courses extending through Île-de-France, Normandy, and Hauts-de-France. Participants select from four extended distances: 200, 300, 500, or 1000 km, accommodating both newcomers to ultra-distance cycling and those training for a demanding overnight effort. The routes are designed by Race Across and verified on the ground by Pierre Lugat, with the final GPX files distributed to riders 30 days prior to the start. Organizers note that the course may still be adjusted following local approvals and last-minute checks, reflecting the practicalities of organizing a race across multiple regions. The cycling route features cobblestone sections, a characteristic that imparts a northern-France character and increases the difficulty beyond mere distance. For many participants, this weekend also serves as a gathering: an opportunity to reconnect with the ultra-cycling community after the winter hiatus, before the main season commences.