Princess Charlene officially launched the 26th edition of No Finish Line on Saturday at 2pm, joining runners and walkers for a symbolic lap around the Chapiteau de Fontvieille. 

The charity marathon, which runs until 23rd November, got off to a lively start with a strong turnout and a truly festive atmosphere under the Chapiteau de Fontvieille on November 15th. Members of the Princess’s foundation walked alongside her, leading the never-ending line of participants through the designated circuit, with everyone proudly walking, jogging, and running for the cause. Even the weather proved kind to participants, a welcome relief from the previous night’s heavy rainfall.

No Finish Line has become a fixture in Monaco’s calendar since its inception in 1999. The concept is that participants can complete as many laps as they wish around a 1,140 metre circuit, with the charity Children & Future donating one euro for every kilometre covered.

This year’s goal is to attract 14,000 participants and collectively cover 325,000 kilometres, raising €325,000 for projects supporting sick and disadvantaged children. A goal, judging from Saturday’s strong turnout, very much possible.

The course remains open 24 hours a day throughout the week, with volunteers providing support and refreshments available around the clock. Each participant receives a tracking chip to record their distance and can return to the circuit as many times as they like until the event concludes on Saturday at 2pm.

Among the participants, 40 ultra-runners will attempt the full eight-day challenge, while a 24-hour trophy challenge is scheduled to take place from 9am on November 22nd to 9am on November 23rd.

Since 1999, nearly 190,000 people have taken part in No Finish Line, covering more than 5.1 million kilometres combined and raising over €5.4 million for children’s charities.

The event is open to runners and walkers of all abilities. Registration costs €15 for adults (plus a €10 chip deposit) and €8 for children over 10 (plus deposit), and remains open until Monday at www.childrenandfuture.com or on-site at the venue.

Stay updated with Monaco Life: sign up for our free newsletter, catch our podcast on Spotify, and follow us across Facebook,  Instagram, LinkedIn, and Tik Tok.

See more in the photo gallery below…(all photos credit: Frédéric Nebinger / Palais princier)