Paris 2024 reveals spectacular Olympic marathon route set against a backdrop of iconic landmarks

The route has historical connections, following in the footsteps of the Women's March of 1789, which shaped the history and values of contemporary France. It will showcase cultural and architectural heritage sites across the French capital, and the unique landscapes of Ile-de-France. These will include the likes of the Louvre, Place de la Concorde, Grand Palais, Château de Versailles and the Eiffel Tower.

In addition to the Olympic marathons, it was confirmed that over 40,000 members of the public will be given the opportunity to run in the “Paris 2024 Marathon Pour Tous” mass running events. As part of this announcement, Paris 2024 revealed details about how people can earn entry for the public marathon (42.195km) and 10km run, both of which will take place on the same route as the Olympic marathons.

Speaking about this, the International Olympic Committee (IOC)’s Paris 2024 Coordination Commission Chair, Pierre-Olivier Beckers, said: “The marathon is a great demonstration of Paris 2024’s slogan ‘Games wide open’. It is one of the many initiatives that will engage the entire population to be an active part of the Games, allowing thousands of fans to pack the route and cheer on the best athletes in the world, as they seek to achieve their Olympic best. In Paris, it will also allow the lucky winners of entries for the mass participation marathon the opportunity to run the same route as their idols. The Olympic marathon in Paris will be truly inspirational for the millions watching around the world and those running.”

Paris 2024’s President, Tony Estanguet, added: “The course will unfold beneath the shoes of the world's leading marathon runners, through the streets and avenues of the most beautiful city in the world. The athletes, the thousands of spectators and millions of television viewers will experience a special line-up of iconic sites, from France’s capital to Versailles, through the emblematic landscapes of Ile-de-France. In this exceptional setting, the athletes will also take on a sporting challenge of unprecedented difficulty, thanks to a tough course with significant climbs. Paris 2024 can't wait to welcome the world to the starting line on 10 and 11 August 2024!”

The route reflects Paris 2024’s ambition to bring sport into the heart of the city, while also opening up the Games to different territories – passing through nine communes, including Paris, Boulogne-Billancourt, Sèvres, Ville d’Avray, Versailles, Viroflay, Chaville, Meudon and Issy-les-Moulineaux.

Tens of thousands of spectators will be able to watch and encourage the runners for free along this route, while at the Esplanade des Invalides, over 7,000 spectators in tiered seating will be able to cheer athletes across the finish line.

Some 80 men and 80 women will participate in both Olympic marathon events, reflecting the fact that the Olympic Games Paris 2024 will be the most gender balanced in history. The men’s race will begin at 8 a.m. on 10 August.  The women’s race will begin at the same time the following day, 11 August, and will bring an end to Paris 2024’s athletics programme on the final day of the Olympic Games.

For more information about the marathon route, visit paris2024.org.