Kilian jornet and utmb: the history of a trail legend

The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc and Kilian Jornet form a mythical duo in the universe of trail running. This iconic 106-mile (171 km) race around the Mont-Blanc massif revealed the Catalan runner's exceptional talent to the world. We look back at a complex relationship between an extraordinary athlete and one of the most prestigious events on the global circuit.

HOW DID KILIAN JORNET MARK THE HISTORY OF UTMB?

In 2008, a 20-year-old man shattered the established codes of trail running. Kilian Jornet, then unknown to the general public, claimed his first victory at UTMB with an impressive time that already heralded his extraordinary potential. This performance marked the beginning of a legendary career and forever transformed the face of mountain racing.

Kilian Jornet's track record at UTMB remains etched in memory:

• 2008: First victory at just 20 years old;
• 2009: Second consecutive victory;
• 2011: Third success confirming his dominance;
• 2022: Triumphant return with a historic record of 19h49'30".

This final performance in 2022 will remain one of the finest pages in the history of the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc. Facing Mathieu Blanchard in an epic duel, Kilian Jornet pushed the limits of the possible by completing the 171 kilometres and 10,000 metres of elevation gain in under 20 hours. A feat that seemed unattainable just a few years prior.

WHY DID KILIAN JORNET DISTANCE HIMSELF FROM UTMB?

Despite his resounding successes, the relationship between Kilian Jornet and UTMB progressively deteriorated. The event's acquisition by the Ironman Group and its transformation into an ultra-commercial global circuit deeply clashed with the vision of trail running defended by the Spaniard. For him, the very essence of trail running lies in simplicity, authenticity, and respect for the mountain.

In 2023, Kilian took a stand by publicly declaring he would no longer participate in UTMB as long as the current direction remained in place. This courageous position reflects his deep convictions on what trail running should be: accessible, environmentally respectful, and far removed from commercial excesses.

In the spring of 2025, you may have noticed that Kilian lined up for the Chianti Ultra Trail by UTMB, finishing second behind Jim Walmsley. This pragmatic choice shows that despite the tensions, the history between the champion and the UTMB World Series organization continues to be written, even if it is now on terrains other than Chamonix.

WHAT ARE KILIAN JORNET'S FUTURE PROJECTS IN EUROPE?

The year 2026 promises to be rich in challenges for Kilian Jornet. In a recent interview with L'Équipe, the Spanish runner mentioned his projects while remaining voluntarily evasive on certain details. His qualification for UTMB thanks to his result at Western States opens interesting perspectives, even if his participation remains uncertain given his stance.

Kilian Jornet's projects go far beyond traditional races. His approach to trail running continues to evolve towards ever more personal and creative challenges. Between expeditions in the Himalayas, climbing records on mythical peaks (where wearing a helmet is often mandatory), and races in Europe, the Catalan athlete constantly seeks to push his limits while staying true to his values.

This permanent quest for authenticity and innovation makes Kilian Jornet much more than a simple champion. He embodies a certain philosophy of trail running, one that prioritises human experience and connection with nature over the frantic search for pure performance.

WHAT LEGACY DOES KILIAN JORNET LEAVE TO TRAIL RUNNING?

Kilian Jornet's impact on the world of trail running goes far beyond his victories and records. With his four victories at UTMB, five successes at Hardrock 100, eleven triumphs at Zegama Aizkorri, and ten wins at Sierre-Zinal, he has redefined standards of performance and style, popularising the use of "speed shades" (fast glasses) in mountain running.

But beyond the numbers, Kilian Jornet has above all inspired a whole generation of runners to view the trail differently. His ability to combine high-level performance with deep respect for the mountain environment has paved the way for a more conscious and responsible practice of trail running.

Today, as the debate on the future of trail running and its commercialisation rages on, Kilian Jornet's position reminds us of the importance of preserving the very essence of this sport. His refusal to participate in UTMB under current conditions is not a star's whim, but the expression of a coherent vision of what mountain racing should be: free, authentic, and respectful.

The story between Kilian Jornet and UTMB is probably not over. Recent years have shown that dialogue remains possible, and who knows if one day we will see the Catalan champion tread the paths of the Tour du Mont-Blanc again. In the meantime, his legacy continues to inspire thousands of enthusiasts who, every day, set out to conquer summits with the sole ambition of fully living their passion for the mountains.