2026 HOKA Semi de Paris
The 2026 HOKA Semi de Paris takes place on March 8, 2026, in Paris, France, with the iconic Boulevard Saint Germain serving as the starting point and Place de la Bastille as the finish line. Early March in Paris typically brings mild spring weather, with average temperatures ranging from 6-12°C (43-54°F). Participants should expect variable conditions, with possible rain showers and a moderate chance of cloud cover, making it advisable to dress in layers and consider weather-appropriate running gear. This FFA Gold Label certified half marathon serves as a major launching event for the running season in France, attracting tens of thousands of participants from around the world who converge on the French capital to tackle the 21-kilometer distance through some of Paris's most distinctive neighborhoods and landmarks.
What is the HOKA Semi de Paris?
The HOKA Semi de Paris is one of France's most popular half marathon events, organized by A.S.O (Amaury Sport Organisation). It holds FFA Gold Label certification, recognizing it as a high-quality road race. The event functions as a major seasonal launch for French running, drawing mass participation from both experienced runners and first-time half marathoners alike.
What distance does this event cover?
- →21 km (Half Marathon distance)
How many runners participated in the previous edition?
The 2025 edition of the HOKA Semi de Paris attracted more than 48,000 runners who started from Boulevard Saint Germain and completed the course to Place de la Bastille. This substantial participation level demonstrates the event's significance within the European running calendar.
What percentage of participants were first-time half marathoners?
The 2025 edition saw notable participation from first-time competitors:
- →46% of all runners were attempting the half marathon distance for the first time
- →51% of women participants were attempting a half marathon for the first time
What is the charity fundraising component of this event?
The HOKA Semi de Paris emphasizes charity fundraising with the motto "Run for an amazing cause." The event partners with multiple charitable organizations across the UK and US, allowing runners to register through specific charities and commit to fundraising targets. This dual-purpose approach combines athletic achievement with meaningful charitable contributions.
What charity partnerships are available for the 2026 edition?
The event offers partnerships with numerous charitable organizations, each with specific registration fees and fundraising targets:
UK Charities:
- →Cure Leukaemia: £25 fee, £500 fundraising target
- →Alzheimer's Research UK: £25 fee, £350 target (Sold Out)
- →Samaritans: £30 fee, £350 target (Waitlist)
- →Helen & Douglas House: £25 fee, £300 target (Sold Out)
- →Muscular Dystrophy UK: £35 fee, £300 target (Sold Out)
- →Parkinson's UK: £35 fee, £350 target (Sold Out)
- →Prostate Cancer Research: £20 fee, £250 target (Sold Out)
- →Crohn's & Colitis UK: £35 fee, £350 target (Sold Out)
- →MND Association: £30 fee, £350 target (Sold Out)
- →Sense: £25 fee, £325 target (Sold Out)
- →Against Breast Cancer: £30 fee, £450 target (Sold Out)
- →Dogs Trust: £30 fee, £400 target (Sold Out)
- →SSAFA Armed Forces Charity: £35 fee, £400 target (Sold Out)
- →SANE: £25 fee, £400 target (Sold Out)
US Charities:
- →The Marfan Foundation: $0 fee, $2,000 target
- →Allyson Whitney Foundation: $20 fee, $500 target (Sold Out)
- →Haymakers for Hope: $0 fee, $1,500 target
- →Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation: $35 fee, $1,000 target
- →National Down Syndrome Society: $50 fee, $500 target (Sold Out)
- →Wild Tomorrow: $50 fee, $500 target (Sold Out)
What should I expect regarding spectator support during the race?
The HOKA Semi de Paris benefits from extensive spectator engagement along the entire route. Thousands of spectators position themselves throughout the course to cheer on runners, creating an energetic and supportive atmosphere that enhances the race experience for participants.
What is the typical weather forecast for Paris in early March?
Early March in Paris typically features mild spring conditions with temperatures ranging from 6-12°C (43-54°F). Runners should prepare for variable weather patterns, including possible rain showers and cloud cover. Layered clothing is recommended, along with weather-resistant gear such as a light jacket or windbreaker. The day length is increasing but still relatively short, so visibility may be limited during early morning hours.
Is registration currently open for the 2026 edition?
Registration is open for the 2026 edition of the HOKA Semi de Paris. Interested participants can register directly or through one of the available charity partnerships, depending on their preference to support a specific cause.