UTMB® World Series announces today the arrival of two new events, in brand new locations for the Series, to its 2026 calendar: Salomon Zugspitz Ultra Trail powered by Ledlenser and Oman by UTMB®.
Two unique opportunities to connect with culture, nature, and sport, while living the UTMB World Series experience closer to home.
“We are thrilled to welcome two outstanding events into the UTMB World Series circuit, expanding our presence into emerging trail running destinations. Germany, with its passionate outdoor culture and the iconic Zugspitz Ultra Trail, and Oman, where dramatic desert mountains meet deep-rooted traditions, both embody the values that define our circuit – excellence in organization, authentic local experiences, environmental and social commitments but also breathtaking natural settings. Together, they reflect the spirit and diversity that make the UTMB World Series.” Florian Lamblin, UTMB International Executive Director.
Founded in 2011 by Heini and Uta Albrecht, Zugspitz Ultra Trail has become one of the most iconic German trail running events.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, this event is deeply rooted in the alpine spirit and trail running culture of the region.
Based in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Zugspitz Ultra Trail is a true celebration of its land and its local culture, bringing together a vibrant community of runners to experience the magic of the Bavarian Alps. In 2025, over 4 300 runners took part, among them 84% of Germans and 30% of Bavarians, a testament to its firmly rooted local character.
Through the years, the event has also built strong ties with local hosts, suppliers, retailers and running communities, ensuring the race supports tourism and regional development.
Moving forward while preserving the legacy
Taking place on June 18-20, 2026, Zugspitz Ultra Trail by UTMB will offer seven race distances from 20K to 100M. Through the different courses, runners will traverse rugged mountain trails, forest paths, and high alpine passes, connecting five starting locations and passing through traditional Bavarian villages, glacial valleys, and panoramic ridgelines.
The event will continue to be operated by the same experienced team, whose deep local knowledge and commitment to excellence have shaped Zugspitz Ultra Trail by UTMB into one of the most-loved trail events.
« It just makes sense that Germany, as a big and ambitious trail running community, is now part of the UTMB World Series. Zugspitz Ultra Trail by UTMB is the largest and most beautiful race we have in Germany; I’m really looking forward to the start in 2026! » declared Ida-Sophie Hegemann, German elite trail runner (GER, UTMB Index 726).
Seven years after its last appearance on the Ultra-Trail® World Tour, Oman by UTMB will return to the global circuit as part of the UTMB World Series on December 10-12, 2026.
Building on the legacy of Oman’s flagship annual mountain event – Himam Trail Run Race – the comeback of this event marks a meaningful renewed collaboration shaped by authenticity, and community.
Trail running through time and tradition
Framed by the imposing Hajar mountains and inspired by Oman’s ancient trade routes, the 2026 edition will celebrate Omani heritage while showcasing the nation’s mountainous landscape and natural beauty.
Offering four race distances, 100M, 100K, 50K and 20K, the event links the historic towns of Birkat Al Mouz welcoming the race village, Al Hamra, Izki, Nizwa, and Jabal Akhdar, inviting runners to explore the rugged local mountains, crossing ancient villages and wadis, UNESCO-listed sites, high ridges, as well as centuries-old trails once used by shepherds and traders.
Along the way, local communities extend Omani hospitality, welcoming runners with warmth, pomegranates, and traditional coffee amidst breathtaking scenery.
