© Direction de la Communication / Charly Gallo
The Monaco Run, the Legacy of the Monaco and Riviera Marathon
Athletes often praise the Principality of Monaco for its setting, mild climate, and prestigious races. The Monaco Diamond League is the most striking example, bringing together many of the world’s best athletes each year inside Stade Louis-II. For several years, Monaco also hosted a marathon that crossed three different countries. The event, rebranded as the Monaco Run in 2011, left a lasting impression.
In every runner’s life, certain races leave a special mark. Whether it’s because of the location, the uniqueness of the event, or its history, the reasons vary. The Monaco Run Gramaglia is one of those races. Known for its very fast 5 km and 10 km courses, the event also carries a fascinating story.
| A Running Festival Honoring the Grimaldi Family
From 1997 to March 2009, the Principality hosted the Monaco and Riviera Marathon — a unique race and the only one in the world to cross three countries: Monaco, France, and Italy. The event was part of the celebrations marking 700 years of the Grimaldi family, the princely dynasty that has ruled Monaco for centuries. It remains one of the oldest ruling families still in place in Europe.
Because Monaco’s geography makes it impossible to create a full 42.195 km loop within the Principality, the organizers opted for a spectacular solution. The marathon stood out thanks to its stunning coastal route and its passage through three different countries — a rare combination that appealed to runners seeking both performance and sightseeing. Over the years, the course was adjusted to make it faster and more runner-friendly.
| A Setting Between Sea and Mountains
Organized by the Monegasque Athletics Federation, the event was both memorable and truly one of a kind. Runners passed through several coastal tunnels, and the route featured a few demanding sections, including the climb up Cap Martin at around the 31st kilometer. The race attracted more than 2,000 international participants from 49 different countries, all drawn by its breathtaking scenery. With today’s booming interest in running, there’s no doubt the event would attract an even larger following if it were still held.
The race started in the heart of the city, at the very spot where Formula 1 cars line up for the Monaco Grand Prix. The out-and-back course followed the Mediterranean coastline from the Principality to Italy, passing through Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Menton. Finishing on the track inside Stade Louis II was truly iconic — as was the awards ceremony attended by Prince Albert II. For years, the marathon generated major excitement, both among runners and spectators.
The course record was set during the final edition by Kenyan runner Ben Mutai Kimwole, who clocked 2:11:01. On the women’s side, Italian athlete Maura Viceconte set the best mark back in 1997 with a time of 2:28:16.
| Various Constraints
Despite the success of the marathon distance, the 42.195 km race is no longer held. The reason lies in organizational and logistical challenges, as well as territorial constraints linked to the complexity of crossing three different countries. In 2010, the final edition was replaced by a half marathon run entirely within the Principality. That race was eventually discontinued as well, due to elections in France that prevented the necessary road and safety operations. The organizers were required to negotiate permits and security approvals across three jurisdictions — Monaco, the Alpes-Maritimes prefecture in France, and the Italian authorities in Imperia.
Since 2011, this unique marathon has been transformed into the Monaco Run Gramaglia, an event now entirely contained within Monaco’s borders and built on the legacy of the original race. A wide range of distances is offered, allowing the event to maintain its prestigious identity while appealing to both elite runners and amateurs. Recent editions have demonstrated its growing popularity, with race bibs selling out quickly as participants chase personal bests — and sometimes international records.
| A Unique Legacy That Continues to Inspire Great Enthusiasm
Although the marathon no longer exists today, the event remains a major highlight. Every February, athletes from all over the world head to Monaco to test themselves on ultra–fast road courses or on mountain trails. With distances ranging from 1000 m, 5 km and 10 km to the 12 km City Trail and the Mont Agel Trail, the programme is extensive and suits every type of runner. The organisers have designed routes that showcase the most iconic sites of the Côte d’Azur enclave. Port Hercule, the Monte-Carlo Bay, the Formula 1 Grand Prix tunnel and Larvotto never fail to delight enthusiasts.
| The city of all records
In 2025, 3,800 participants gathered across all distances. It was a true celebration of running, highlighted by the French 5 km record set by Olympic and world champion Cassandre Beaugrand in 14:53, as well as the European record of the Dutch athlete Diane Van Es. The 2024 European 10,000 m silver medallist shattered the previous mark with a superb 14:39. Three European records over 5 km were set in Monaco, in the women’s race, the mixed-gender race, and the men’s race. Among the men, Belgian athlete Isaac Kimeli, a finalist in the 5,000 m at the 2024 Olympic Games, took the win in 13:15.
Since its creation, the Monaco Run has prided itself on bringing together the world’s running elite, both men and women. This exceptional depth delights spectators and participants alike. Last year, in addition to these remarkable times, another achievement stood out: the highest number of runners ever recorded in the 10 km event, with 1,227 participants.
Monaco is truly a destination where anything is possible. Its legendary marathon is no exception. As the only race in the world to cross three countries, the Principality attracted runners from across the globe for many years, offering an exceptional setting. With its rich heritage, the Monaco and Riviera Marathon evolved in 2011 to become the Monaco Run. This major competition has already seen several European records fall. See you on 14 and 15 February 2026 for a new edition filled with excitement… and performances.
➜ Information and Registration for the Monaco Run Gramaglia
Emma BERT
Journaliste
25/11/2025
17/11/2025
15/11/2025