POSTPONEMENT OF THE 35th MARATHON DES SABLES TO APRIL 2021

Dear friends,

Owing to the deterioration of the international situation – which seemed stable up to a few weeks ago – we are taking the difficult decision of postponing once again this 35th MARATHON DES SABLES to 02-12 April 2021.

In a context of general uncertainty, there are too many unknowns to serenely organise our beautiful MDS adventure. We were ready to take any health measures that would have been necessary. However, it seems unthinkable to gather in the desert for this 35th edition in such complex conditions both for organisers and for competitors, volunteers, partners, service providers, and journalists. The uncertainty of being able to leave one's home country, to enter Morocco, the risk of being quarantined when returning home... And on the other hand, the obligation to prepare for the event, with holiday planning, training, family separation, equipment purchase, reservation of transport and hotels.

It is important for us to keep the spirit and values that make up the DNA of the MARATHON DES SABLES. Solidarity, human relationships, sharing, and benevolence are the founding values of our event, and they could not have been upheld in the current conditions and in those projected in two months' time.

Furthermore, it is our responsibility to protect everyone's health.

We know that this postponement will have consequences for everyone. But we are eager to organise a 35th anniversary that will live up to your expectations. We are impatient to see you in April on the start line and to reunite the big family of the MARATHON DES SABLES.

Patrick BAUER
Race Director