UTMB in Portugal: What the UTMB Index Is and Where to Earn It
If you’re a trail runner, you’ve probably thought it at least once:
“One day, I want to run UTMB.”
UTMB® (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc) is the pinnacle of trail running — an annual gathering in Chamonix where athletes from all over the world take on long, emotional, technical routes through the Alps. But the journey to Chamonix doesn’t start there. It starts with experience — and that experience can be built right here, in Portugal.
🟣 What is the UTMB Index?
The UTMB Index is a score that proves you have recent race experience at a certain distance level.
When you finish a UTMB Index race, you receive an index in one of the four UTMB categories:
| Category | Approx. Distance Range |
|---|---|
| 20K | Up to ~25 km |
| 50K | ~25–75 km |
| 100K | ~75–125 km |
| 100M | 125+ km |
Having an updated UTMB Index:
- Shows you’re prepared for that distance
- Gives priority access to UTMB World Series registrations
- Helps you enter high-demand races earlier
- And may grant privileged lottery access in some cases
In simple terms:
Your UTMB Index is your gateway to progress toward the UTMB World Series.
🇵🇹 UTMB Index Races in Portugal (Coming Up)
Here are 5 upcoming events in Portugal where you can earn or renew your UTMB Index — now with confirmed dates:
1) EPICX Azores by Decathlon
📍 Azores
🗓 December 5–6, 2025
Volcanic ridges, lush island valleys, ocean air and technical trails that feel like an adventure expedition.
One of the most atmospheric races in Portugal.
2) Maxi Race Madeira
📍 Madeira
🗓 December 6–7, 2025
A race that defines “mountain running.”
Expect steep climbs, laurissilva forest, altitude variations and technical descents — Madeira doesn’t ask for your best, it demands it.
3) Trail da Amizade
📍 Vila Real de Santo António, Algarve
🗓 December 6–7, 2025
The name says it all: friendship, community, shared joy.
A perfect race for athletes looking to earn their first UTMB Index in a supportive atmosphere.
4) Proença Cross Trail
📍 Proença-a-Nova
🗓 December 19–21, 2025
Interior landscapes, varied terrain and a strong local organisation.
A balanced race that builds confidence and mountain rhythm.
5) Nexe 107 – Trail Ultra Endurance
📍 Santa Bárbara de Nexe, Algarve
🗓 January 2–3, 2026
A long-distance endurance effort through hills and rural tracks.
Ideal for runners developing pacing strategy and long-duration stamina.
✨ Final Thought
If Chamonix is the dream, Portugal can be the beginning.
Step by step, season by season — every trail builds something.
Your next start line might be closer than you think.
➡️ Explore more trail events at racefinder.pt
