WORLD MASTERS MOUNTAIN RUNNING CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026 - JANSKÉ LÁZNĚ, CZECH REPUBLIC!

By 29 Ιαν 2026

The World Masters Mountain Running Championships 2026 (WMMRC) continue to build momentum as preparations progress in the Czech Republic, with the official championship centre confirmed in the spa town of Janské Lázně, located in the heart of Europe and surrounded by the iconic Krkonoše Mountains.

Following the strong legacy and competitive spirit carried forward from Meduno 2025, the 2026 Championships promise a technically demanding and atmospherically rich event, combining classic mountain running formats with Central Europe’s long-standing tradition in athletics and outdoor sport.

 

 

The World Masters Mountain Running Championships 2026 are organised by TJ Maratonstav Úpice, with the support of the towns of Janské Lázně and Úpice, the Hradec Králové Region, and the Czech Athletics Federation.

The Organising Committee warmly invites masters athletes and national federations from around the world to take part in this unique championship event. The World Masters Mountain Running Championships 2026 aim to deliver not only high-level competition, but also an inspiring and unforgettable weekend defined by athletic achievement, friendship, and true international spirit. We look forward to welcoming the global masters community to the Krkonoše Mountains in June 2026.

 

JANSKÉ LÁZNĚ — THE DESTINATION —MOUNTAIN TRADITION

Janské Lázně offers an ideal setting for the World Masters Mountain Running Championships, combining compact logistics, a wide range of accommodation options, and immediate access to high-quality mountain terrain. Known for its spa heritage and outdoor infrastructure, the town provides excellent conditions for athletes, team managers, supporters, and accompanying guests.

All races will be centred around the town colonnade area, ensuring easy access to start and finish zones while maintaining a compact, spectator-friendly championship atmosphere.

 

THE RACES — THREE CHAMPIONSHIP FORMATS, ONE MOUNTAIN

The 2026 programme features three classic World Masters Mountain Running Championship races:

  • Uphill: Approx. 7.7 km with ~770 m D+, starting Friday, 26 June 2026 at 13:00. A steep, sustained climb from the colonnade area to Černá hora, tailored for pure uphill specialists.
  • Long Distance: Approx. 22 km with ~1,200 m D+, starting Saturday, 27 June 2026 at 08:30. A classic mountain long-distance course on varied terrain, starting and finishing at the town colonnade.
  • Up & Down: Approx. 9.3 km with ~550 m D+, starting Sunday, 28 June 2026 at 09:00. A fast and technical loop combining climbs and descents, rewarding efficient pacing and confident downhill running.

All three races take place around the town center to simplify transfers, support team logistics, and maximise the championship atmosphere for athletes and supporters.

 

REGISTRATION & CHAMPIONSHIP INFORMATION

The official WMMRC 2026 website is live, providing full race details, schedules, maps and GPX files, accommodation information, and local guidance:
https://wmmrc2026.maratonstav.cz/en

Athlete registration is open via the official entry platform:
https://registrace2.onlinesystem.cz/detail/event/068ad46d-c1cb-4a45-b5e4-084ef55e363c

A tiered entry-fee structure applies, with reduced rates for early registration and additional discounts for athletes entering multiple races. Early entry is strongly recommended to secure preferred pricing and support national team planning. A continuously updated entry list will keep athletes, team managers, and federations informed as delegations submit their applications.