For the 13th edition of the white trail, nearly two thousand winter running enthusiasts took over the snow-covered slopes of the resort. A total of 1,926 runners lined up at the start, with a strong female presence (63%), ready to take on the cold, the altitude and the darkness in an electric atmosphere, heightened by the participation of leading figures from the international trail-running scene.
A race reaching a new dimension
Year after year, Les Lumières de la Muzelle continues to grow in scale. The 2026 edition marks a major milestone, with a spectacular increase in entries: around 700 more participants compared to previous years. Now firmly established on the winter trail calendar, the event delivered a breathtaking spectacle as runners, headlamps lit, set off from the ridges of the Vallée Blanche at 2,100 meters above sea level, forming a glowing ribbon across the alpine landscape.
Smart racing and standout performances in the snow
As an ambassador for Les 2 Alpes, Mathieu Blanchard opted for a cautious strategy, choosing the 21 km race as part of his gradual return to competition. A well-considered decision that still led to an impressive 4th-place finish in 1h42. Unable to race due to injury, Yannick Noël nevertheless played an active role by joining the team of 83 volunteers supporting the event.
On the flagship Maratrail distance (42 km), recent snowfall significantly increased the difficulty of the course, leaving last year’s record untouched. Baptiste Coatantiec proved the strongest in the men’s race, while the women’s victory went to Laurence Bonzi, representing the local club Les 2 Alpes Trail.
A landmark edition for the organizers
For race director Laurent Sabot, this edition will stand as a benchmark:
“The mountain showed its demanding nature, true to the spirit of winter trail running. Conditions evolved throughout the race, forcing everyone to adapt. At the finish line, emotions were running high. This shared experience, this collective adventure, is what gives the event its true meaning.”
