How to qualify and register for UTMB Mont-Blanc
Written by Victor Michel — history enthusiast and passionate alpinist based in Chamonix. Published July 12, 2026 · Updated August 6, 2026
Registering for the UTMB is not a one-click process: you must first gather a valid UTMB Index and at least one Running Stone, then try your luck in the lottery draw during a specific pre-registration window.
Key takeaways
- UTMB Index: performance indicator with a minimum threshold that varies by race
- Running Stone: obtained by finishing a qualifying UTMB World Series race, valid for 24 months
- 1 Running Stone is enough to be eligible, but each stone adds an entry to the lottery
- Pre-registration 2026: January 8-19 — lottery draw on January 22
Step 1 — Get a valid UTMB Index
The UTMB Index measures a runner's performance level on recognized races. Each race requires a minimum threshold: 100K or 100M category for the UTMB and TDS, 50K/100K/100M for the CCC, from 20K for the OCC. Elite-level runners must exceed 820 (men) or 695 (women) in the 100M category.
UTMB Index — A performance indicator calculated from a runner's results on recognised trail races. Every race on the UTMB programme requires a valid index in a minimum category (20K, 50K, 100K or 100M depending on the target race) — this is what attests to your level, independently of Running Stones.
Step 2 — Earn a Running Stone
Running Stones are earned by finishing a qualifying race labeled as UTMB World Series: the number of stones awarded depends on the distance and elevation gain of the event (a race of 50 km or more 'by UTMB' awards 9 stones for example). Only stones earned in the last 24 months count.
Running Stone — An entry token for the lottery draw, earned by finishing a qualifying race labelled UTMB World Series. The number of stones awarded depends on the race's distance and elevation gain. A single stone is enough to be eligible; holding several adds that many extra entries to the draw, without changing basic eligibility.
Step 3 — Enter the lottery draw
Pre-registration for 2026 is open from January 8-19, with results published on January 22. Each Running Stone owned adds an additional entry to the draw: more stones increase your chances without changing basic eligibility. Runners drawn in the lottery have until February 4 to confirm their bib; spots not confirmed by that date are then offered to runners on the waiting list. New in 2026: +30% chance bonus for committing to low-carbon transport to reach the Mont-Blanc valleys.
Holding a valid UTMB Index and a Running Stone doesn't guarantee a bib: these are eligibility conditions for the lottery draw, not an automatic entry. The pre-registration window is short (12 days), and a runner who is drawn but doesn't confirm their bib by February 4 loses their spot to the waiting list.
Registration fees 2026
UTMB: €479 · TDS: €320 · CCC: €310 · OCC: €199 · MCC: €105 (€77 for volunteers) · ETC: €69 · YCC: €55 · PTL: €1,650 (per team).
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FAQ
How do I get a Running Stone for the UTMB?
By finishing a qualifying race labeled as UTMB World Series. The number of stones awarded depends on the distance and elevation gain of the race: for example, a race of 50 km or more 'by UTMB' awards 9 stones.
How long is a Running Stone valid?
24 months. Only runners who have earned at least one Running Stone within the last two years can enter the UTMB, CCC or OCC lottery draw.
What is the UTMB Index and how do I get it?
The UTMB Index is a performance indicator calculated from a runner's results on recognized races. Each UTMB program race requires a valid index in a minimum category: 100K/100M for the UTMB and TDS, 50K/100K/100M for the CCC, 20K and above for the OCC.
Is the UTMB lottery draw truly random?
Yes, but weighted: each Running Stone held adds an extra entry to the draw. A runner with 7 stones has 7 times more chances of being drawn than a runner with just one.
Is there a bonus for attending the UTMB without a car?
Yes, new in 2026: candidates in the UTMB, CCC, OCC or ETC lottery draw can get 30% extra chances by committing to low-carbon transport to reach the Mont-Blanc valleys.
What is the minimum age to register for the UTMB?
Born in 2006 or earlier for the main races (UTMB, CCC, TDS, OCC, MCC). Runners aged 14-19 can participate in the YCC, a dedicated category.
What happens if I don't confirm my bib after being drawn?
Runners selected in the draw have until February 4 to confirm their bib. Spots not confirmed by that date are then offered to runners on the waiting list.