Lille International Marathon

Lille International Marathon: the big comeback

Discontinued after around ten editions between 1986 and the mid-1990s, the Lille International Marathon made its big comeback in 2026, more than thirty years later. Held in late October, it sends runners off from Boulevard de la Liberté in the heart of Lille, on a fast course through several towns of the metropolitan area before returning to the Champ de Mars esplanade, at the foot of Vauban's citadel. Awarded a Gold label by the French Athletics Federation, the race runs alongside a half marathon. Success was instant: marathon bibs sold out within hours and tens of thousands of runners took part in the weekend. Expect a warm northern French atmosphere! For another great city marathon, head to the Paris Marathon in spring.