From road to lost trails: BikingMan in the heart of the Atlas

The BikingMan, the first ultra-cycling world championship created by cycling explorer Axel Carion, returns for its fifth edition in Morocco, from October 14 to 21. This year, the event innovates with a major new feature: the introduction of a 500 km self-supported gravel race, in addition to the traditional 1,000 km road event. Both courses, crossing the mythical passes of the High Atlas, promise a unique adventure combining sporting challenge and spectacular landscapes.

Photo credit: ©BikingMan/David Styv

Marrakech, host city and base camp, asserts itself as a paradise for cyclists with its panoramic roads, grandiose scenery, and ideal climate for ultra-cycling.

Two exceptional courses

ROAD: SEPTEMBER 14 TO 19

Distance: 1,000 km, start and finish in Marrakech.
Course: a new route, revealed the day before the start, combining 80% asphalt roads and 20% gravel tracks.
Riders will cross the High Atlas, its demanding passes and breathtaking landscapes, in total self-sufficiency.
Challenge: complete the event in less than 120 hours, with three mandatory checkpoints to validate progress.

GRAVEL: SEPTEMBER 19 TO 21

Distance: 500 km, with over 8,000 m of elevation gain.
Course: an itinerary around the “red city”, exploring a vast network of gravel tracks, picturesque villages and the Oukaïmeden pass, perched at over 3,000 m altitude in the High Atlas.
Challenge: complete the challenge in a maximum of 60 hours.

A high-level field

This edition will welcome former professional rider Pierre Rolland, stage winner on the Tour de France and an accomplished climber, for his first experience in self-supported ultra-cycling. He will face the BikingMan championship leaders, André Froes, Daniel Lins, and Matthieu Plessis, on a course as demanding as it is spectacular. This confrontation promises to be a highlight of the season.

An experience beyond sport

Ultra-cycling, in full expansion, redefines the limits of physical and mental effort. BikingMan events, rooted in exceptional natural environments, celebrate human adventure, respect for the territories crossed, and a deep connection with oneself. More than a race, BikingMan is a transformative experience that pushes the boundaries of what is possible.Photo credit ©BikingMan/David StyvPRACTICAL INFORMATIONInformation requests:

Next stages of the BikingMan 2025 championship: