Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc 2026: where wine and running meet in the heart of Bordeaux’s Grands Crus
On Saturday 5th September 2026, the marathon des Châteaux du Médoc will celebrate its 40th edition! Since 1986, this one-of-a-kind race has blended sport, friendy atmosphere and the chance to discover fine wines in the heart of one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious vineyard regions. We sat down with Philippe Blanc, Director of Château Beychevelle (Saint-Julien), to explore the history, challenges, and unmatched spirit of this iconic event.
A model for vineyards worldwide
« This marathon stands out for several reasons: it takes place in a stunning region—and yes, Paris, New York, and Boston are beautiful too! But for vineyards, this was the pioneer. Even today, it inspires other wine regions, from Alsace to Beaujolais. » explains Philippe Blanc.
With 21 gourmet and wine-tasting stops, opened Châteaux for runners, and a 42.2 km course (sometimes a little longer…), the marathon du Médoc is far more than a race—it’s a deeply human experience.
With 21 gourmet and wine-tasting stops, opened Châteaux for runners, and a 42.2 km course (sometimes a little longer…), the marathon du Médoc is far more than a race—it’s a deeply human experience.
A community-driven event
Unlike many famous races, the marathon des Châteaux du Médoc remains independent and volunteer-run. « We only have one paid employee. The rest? 3,000 volunteers show up on race day to make it unforgettable »Unlike many famous races, the marathon des Châteaux du Médoc remains independent and volunteer-run. « We only have one paid employee. The rest? 3,000 volunteers show up on race day to make it unforgettable ».
Immersion in the spirit of the Médoc
The night before the race, 1,500 runners gather for the "Soirée des Mille Pâtes" (Pasta Party), hosted this year at Château Beychevelle.
On the menu? Pasta, of course! But also Médoc wines served by volunteer sommeliers, in an unforgettable atmosphere.
« What’s truly wonderful is that every Property in the Saint-Julien appellation answered the call. »
On the menu? Pasta, of course! But also Médoc wines served by volunteer sommeliers, in an unforgettable atmosphere.
« What’s truly wonderful is that every Property in the Saint-Julien appellation answered the call. »
Unforgettable memories
Philippe Blanc joined Château Beychevelle in 1995 and recalls his first marathon in 1996: « I had already run in New York, but this was different. I wanted to set my best time… before joining the organizing team and the volunteers of the AMCM (Association pour le Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc) ».
Today, he might run it in 6 hours and 30 minutes—not to break records, but to encourage others (laughs!). « The best part? Seeing families, first-time runners, proud to have finished. That’s the magic of this race ».
Today, he might run it in 6 hours and 30 minutes—not to break records, but to encourage others (laughs!). « The best part? Seeing families, first-time runners, proud to have finished. That’s the magic of this race ».
A truly international event
With 70 nationalities represented, the marathon du Médoc is also one of the most gender-balanced in the world, with a higher female participation rate than Paris or New York.
« You can come from China, Japan, the United States… or Bordeaux! You can be a winemaker, a doctor, a student, or a senior executive—here, everyone runs together. » sums up Philippe Blanc.
« You can come from China, Japan, the United States… or Bordeaux! You can be a winemaker, a doctor, a student, or a senior executive—here, everyone runs together. » sums up Philippe Blanc.
A few tips for success :
As a competitor, the Director of Château Beychevelle shares his three key pieces of advice for tackling the marathon with confidence:
1. Train properly: « A marathon isn’t a 10K. Even if you’re running it in 6 hours, preparation is key. »
2. Hydrate (with water!) and take care of yourself: « Wine tasting is a bonus… but it doesn’t give you an edge (laughs)! »
3. Enjoy the experience: « The Médoc isn’t a race against the clock. Like wine, it’s a unique experience—a celebration, a discovery, and a moment of sharing. »
1. Train properly: « A marathon isn’t a 10K. Even if you’re running it in 6 hours, preparation is key. »
2. Hydrate (with water!) and take care of yourself: « Wine tasting is a bonus… but it doesn’t give you an edge (laughs)! »
3. Enjoy the experience: « The Médoc isn’t a race against the clock. Like wine, it’s a unique experience—a celebration, a discovery, and a moment of sharing. »
A unique alchemy
« This is one of the most beautiful events in the Médoc, » affirms Philippe Blanc. « Its success lies in total commitment: from the smallest to the grandest Châteaux, from volunteers to runners… everyone believes in it. »
The real challenge? Mobilizing the community and sustaining such an event year after year. Organizing one edition is impressive. Organizing 40 is a feat. But maintaining this cohesion, this passion, this success—that’s the true performance.
The real challenge? Mobilizing the community and sustaining such an event year after year. Organizing one edition is impressive. Organizing 40 is a feat. But maintaining this cohesion, this passion, this success—that’s the true performance.
A must-attend event
The marathon du Médoc is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of wine, sport, and friendy atmosphere.
A huge thank you to Philippe Blanc for his time and contagious passion!
