On Sunday, April 27, 2025, the vibrant city of Nantes is set to host the 43rd edition of its renowned marathon, drawing in a staggering 21,000 runners throughout the weekend. With a redesigned course that promises to challenge even the most seasoned athletes, the event is expected to create significant traffic disruptions across various neighborhoods in the city.
The marathon race, featuring 5,500 registered participants, kicks off at 9:15 AM from the iconic Machines de l'Ile site, culminating at the Parc des Expositions de la Beaujoire. This year, a unique addition to the race is a 324-meter floating pontoon that runners will cross on the Erdre River, which adds an exciting yet challenging element to the course.
Runners and spectators alike should prepare for substantial road closures and detours from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM in several key areas, including Ile de Nantes, the heart of the city, and Jardin des Plantes. Traffic is expected to gradually resume after 9:30 AM, with specific measures in place to manage the flow of vehicles at critical intersections. "Points de cisaillement" will be established to allow for the controlled passage of vehicles at certain crossroads, as detailed by the marathon’s organizing committee.
Public transport will also face interruptions, with tram services disrupted starting from Saturday, April 26. For instance, tram line 1 will not operate between Médiathèque and Duchesse Anne on Saturday evening and will be halted again on Sunday between 7:45 AM and 1:30 PM. Other lines, such as line 2 and line 3, will experience similar disruptions, impacting the city’s transport network during the marathon.
Parking access will be modified as well, with several parking facilities having restricted entry and exit times. For example, the Bretagne parking will only be accessible via Place Bretagne, while vehicles in the Cathédrale parking will need to exit through Rue Tournefort between 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM. These changes are crucial for ensuring the safety and smooth operation of the marathon.
The Marathon de Nantes 2025 is not just a test of endurance; it is a strategic challenge that requires careful pace management. Covering a distance of 42.195 kilometers with a positive elevation gain of 230 meters, the course is anything but straightforward. Runners will encounter various segments that demand different pacing strategies, especially during the critical 29-35 km stretch, often referred to as “the wall.”
Loïc, a finisher from the previous year, shared his insights on the importance of pacing: "I ran the 2024 edition and it's clearly in the last climb, before the Parc des Expositions, that I gave it my all. I managed my effort well thanks to pacing advice." This sentiment is echoed by many seasoned marathoners who understand that success hinges on both endurance and the ability to anticipate critical sections of the race.
In the initial kilometers, runners are advised to start at 80% of their maximum heart rate (FCM), especially until the 10 km mark. As they progress to the 12-24 km segment, maintaining comfort while reducing pace on inclines becomes vital. The floating crossing on the Erdre, which is a first for Nantes, presents a unique logistical and physical challenge, requiring runners to maintain stability without stopping.
"I prepared by running on compacted sand, which helped me adjust to the floating bridge's instability on race day," said Thomas, another finisher from the 2023 marathon. Runners are explicitly advised against stopping for photos on the pontoon, as maintaining momentum is crucial for success.
As the race nears its conclusion, the final 2.195 km stretch demands mental fortitude. Runners should aim to accelerate if possible, drawing on their reserves for a strong finish. "I took my energy gel at the 28 km mark, and it made all the difference," noted Hugo, an experienced marathon runner.
The official pacemakers, identifiable by their flags, will guide runners aiming for specific finish times, such as 3:00 or 3:15. Staying within their wake until the 35 km mark is strongly recommended to prevent early fatigue. "I started aiming for a 3:45 finish, and by sticking with my pacemaker, I finished at 3:42 without faltering," shared Gilles, a veteran marathoner.
Overall, the Marathon de Nantes 2025 promises to be a thrilling event not just for participants but also for spectators. With its unique course features and the excitement of thousands of runners racing through the streets, the city will surely be alive with energy. As Nantes prepares for this monumental day, the community eagerly awaits to witness the determination and spirit of all those taking part.
In conclusion, the Marathon de Nantes is more than just a race; it's a celebration of endurance, strategy, and community spirit. As runners take to the streets, they embody the resilience and passion that defines the marathon experience.
