January 15th 2025 12:00pm (cet) three MDS events go on sale for the 2025 calendar.
MDS Fuerteventura – September 20the to September 27th.
MDS Morocco – October 10th to October 18th.
MDS Trek Morocco – October 19th to October 28th.
FUERTEVENTURA – September 20th to September 27th.
2024 was a significant year for the MDS, it saw the return of MDS Fuerteventura exploring a new part of the island and with a capped entrant list it was not only a sell out but a huge success.
- You can read daily summaries of the 2024 edition and explore the route via images:
- MDS Fuerteventura Stage 1
- MDS Fuerteventura Stage 2
- MDS Fuerteventura Stage 3
With an isolated bivouac close to the ocean, Fuerteventura brings something very special to the MDS portfolio. In many respects it can draw comparisons to MDS Peru, however, it does not have the epic dunes that the Ica desert provides. With stunning cliffs, runnable terrain and epic views, this is one race that must be experienced.
More MDS Fuerteventura details HERE
MOROCCO – October 10th to October 18th.
MDS Morocco follows in the footsteps and the history of The Legendary. Taking place in the same area of the Sahara, this race is ultimately a mini Legendary and as such holds a special place for all participants. The 2024 edition was notable for two reasons… Freak weather – believe it or not, rain and flooding in the Sahara! It made for a unique and special edition with some unforgettable visual stories. Secondly, the Handi category which saw wheelchair athletes take on the Sahara with the help of a team.
- Experience the 2024 edition below:
- MDS Morocco Stage 1
- MDS Morocco Stage 1
- MDS Morocco Stage 1
The 2025 edition of the race will once again pave the way for the MDS brand and the history of the race.
TREK – October 19th to October 28th.
MDS Trek was new for 2024. Combining much of what we see and experience in a normal MDS event, the TREK format added more comfort (2-person tents with mats,) no self-sufficiency (in regard to food,) showers, and after the stages, you will have the opportunity to relax with a daily massage* for better recovery, enjoy cold drinks* from the available bar, and share convivial moments in the social areas.
*extra charge locally
Combining mental enrichment with workshop conferences, the TREK still offers the classic MDS distances of 70-120km but at a more relaxed pace and a slightly different format due to the very special ‘star night!’
Here’s the approximate breakdown of distances:
- Stage 1: 14 or 24km
- Stage 2: 12 or 15km
- Stage 3 – day 1: 19 or 31km
- Stage 3 – day 2: 19 or 26km
- Stage 4: 13 or 24km
A perfect event for those looking for an introduction to stage racing, an active holiday or just an escape with a loved one or friend. An opportunity to experience the DNA of the MDS, the 2024 edition was a huge success and returns for 2025, bigger and better! Accessible to everyone, this format is perfect for those who want to explore the desert, make new connections, push their physical limits, and all while maintaining a level of comfort.
More TREK details HERE
What is the MDS?
The MARATHON DES SABLES is a unique adventure, shared by thousands of enthusiasts since 1986.
To differentiate the full distance race of 250km’s, Marathon des Sables will now be known as MDS The Legendary, reflecting the legendary status of this iconic event and its long history as a pioneer of the stage racing and multi-day format.
The ‘HMDS’ format will still follow the same protocols as before but has now dropped the ‘half’ title and moving forward, events will be called MDS Jordan, MDS Morocco, MDS Cappadocia and so on.
The MDS events are a one-week sporting adventure that combines discovery, travel, meeting new people and physically challenging yourself in a self-sufficient manner.
MDS TREK was introduced in 2024 and is a 10-day adventure at a more relaxed pace with extra comfort, perfect for an active holiday, training or as an introduction to desert stage racing.
Read MDS THE ULTIMATE GUIDE HERE
Since 1986, the MARATHON DES SABLES has crossed the world’s most stunning deserts with several unique concepts: the MARATHON DES SABLES THE LEGENDARY (252 km in the Sahara Desert in Morocco), the MARATHON DES SABLES (70, 100, or 120 km spread over 3 stages), and the new 2024 concept, the MDS TREK (4 stages with a total distance of up to 120 km), offering an accessible adventure with optimal comfort. These international events have seen over 50 editions in various countries such as Morocco, Fuerteventura Island, Peru, Jordan, Turkey, and offer adventures that combine running/hiking in the desert with tourism.
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IAN CORLESS 