Golden Trail Series calendar 2026

Inside the Golden Trail World Series

The Golden Trail World Series (GTWS) has firmly established itself as the premier global circuit for short-distance trail running, specifically designed to celebrate the sport and elevate its athletes to the world-class status they deserve. Built on a foundation of parity, equity, transparency, and honesty, the series focuses on the most iconic events in the sport today.

The Format: Simplicity and High Stakes The GTWS follows a clear and revolutionary format designed to maximize excitement for fans and competition among elites. The series consists of eight carefully selected races, chosen for their historic significance, technical challenge, and breathtaking scenery.

To ensure the highest level of competition, the series uses a simple points system:

  • An athlete’s best three results from the eight qualifying races count toward their overall ranking.
  • This format ensures that the world’s best athletes face off multiple times throughout the season.
  • Following the final qualifying race, the top 30 men and women are invited to a legendary Grand Final to battle for the championship title.
Golden Trail Series
Photo courtesey Golden Trail Series

Beyond the World Series: The National Level Complementing the World Series are the Golden Trail National Series (GTNS). These regional circuits—spanning across countries like Italy, France, Spain, China, and the USA—serve as the primary pathway for emerging talent. The goal is to provide local athletes the opportunity to measure themselves against the best and earn a spot in the prestigious international World Series the following year.

A Celebration of the Sport At its core, the Golden Trail World Series is about more than just results; it is a celebration of the community. By focusing on athlete storytelling, environmental protection, and fan engagement, the GTWS continues to evolve trail running into a globally recognized professional sport while maintaining the unique spirit of the mountains.

Website: Golden Trail Series