Paris Marathon prep changes
Paris Marathon organizers expanded the pre-filled water-bottle system to all runners targeting sub-2:50 — a notable logistical change for the April 12 race that’s sparked frustration and clarifications from race director Thomas (rmcsport.bfmtv.com). Uganda’s Victor Kiplangat also confirmed he’s preparing for his Paris debut and feels confident in his readiness for the course (independent.co.ug).
The course will feature 13 refreshment points: 9 full stations (food + drinks), 4 dedicated water points, one full station at the finish and two Ta Energy electrolyte stations, with full stations stretched to about 160 metres to reduce crowding. (schneiderelectricparismarathon.com) Organisers say no single‑use cups or bottles will be handed out and volunteers plus refill stations will support runners who bring personal containers. (schneiderelectricparismarathon.com) The elite‑style sub‑2:50 service requires runners to start in the preferred wave (≤ 8:03 a.m.), hold roughly a 4:01/km pace to qualify, collect provided pre‑filled bottles that will be reused by the organisation, and drop used bottles only in designated disposal zones 150 metres after each station or face disqualification. (schneiderelectricparismarathon.com) Culligan was announced as the event’s Official Water Solutions Supplier and the event will distribute a co‑branded, foldable Speedcup (supplied via HydraPak) so participants can refill on the course rather than receive single‑use containers. (culliganinternational.com) Race organisers and Thomas Delpeuch have pointed to prior tests and said a 350–400 ml flask can be refilled in about 1.5–2 seconds, and the cup‑free model was trialled on shorter events before its Paris rollout. (ledauphine.com) Uganda’s Victor Kiplangat confirmed he is training in Kapchorwa alongside Joshua Cheptegei and working under coach Addy Reuter as he prepares for the April 12 race. (independent.co.ug) Organisers’ start lists and their event preview, however, list Kiplangat as a returning contender—not a debutant—showing he finished third at the Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris 2025 in 2:06:21 and noting his 2023 World Championship win in Budapest. (schneiderelectricparismarathon.com)
