Mohamed El Morabity crowned champion of the 2026 Marathon des Sables
The Moroccan desert once again delivered its verdict at the end of the sixth and final stage held on Saturday. Morocco’s Mohamed El Morabity claimed the 40th edition of the Marathon des Sables Legendary, confirming his dominance in this iconic race.
Managing his effort perfectly from start to finish, he won the overall standings in 20 h 47 min 39 s, writing his name into the continuing family dynasty that has ruled the desert for several years.
In the women’s race, France’s Maryline Nakache also left her mark on this edition. Untouchable throughout the week, she secured the title with an impressive margin, completing the event in 25 h 54 min 29 s. It was a top-level performance reflecting perfect management of extreme conditions and flawless consistency.
Behind this prestigious double triumph, the hierarchy became clear. Rachid El Morabity completed the family success by taking second place nearly thirty minutes behind, while France’s Ludovic Pommeret claimed a solid third position thanks to a consistent and committed race.
In the women’s category, Morocco’s Aziza El Amrany stood out by finishing second, confirming her progress on the international stage, while American Desiree Linden completed the podium, giving this edition a strong and cosmopolitan top three.
Beyond the sporting performances, this 40th edition marks a turning point in the history of the Marathon des Sables. Since its acquisition in 2023, the race has entered a new phase, driven by an ambitious development strategy aimed at transforming it into a true international brand.
This evolution is reflected in the diversification of formats and a growing global presence. While the “Legendary” format remains the historic heart of the event, it is now accompanied by other versions designed to broaden its audience.
Editorial team/le7tv (Press Release)
