Ultra Mirage El Djérid 2025: 500 Athletes from 29 Countries Gather in Tozeur
A Spectacular 9th Edition Combining Sports Performance, Cultural Immersion, and Social Commitment
The Ultra Mirage El Djérid 2025 kicked off its 9th edition yesterday in Tozeur, attracting a record number of 500 participants from 29 countries and five continents. This spectacular event combines sports adventure, cultural immersion, and social impact, making it a unique experience for athletes and spectators alike.
An Affirmed International Dimension
Launched in 2017 with only 60 runners and 13 nationalities, the Ultra Mirage has become a global trail running event in the desert. This year, the organization introduced several major innovations, including a change of location: the race moved from the Ong Jmel area, famous for hosting Star Wars film shoots, to the Chamsa lake area, 15 km from Tozeur. This strategic choice offers runners a spectacular course between dunes, palm groves, and salt flats.
Three Distances and a New Format
Three distances are offered this year: 100 km, 50 km, and a new 25 km format, the Assurances Biat Trail, created to democratize trail running and attract a wider audience.
A Global Event with a Human Touch
With runners from Martinique, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States, the Ultra Mirage has become a true pilgrimage for trail running enthusiasts worldwide. "When we launched this project during a difficult period for Tunisia, many people doubted us. Today, the event has become a benchmark for the sport," says Amir Belgacem, race director.
A Partnership Based on Shared Values
Historical partner of the event since its creation, Assurances Biat plays a crucial role in this success. For Mehdi Masmoudi, CEO of the company, this partnership goes beyond financial support. "We share strong values with the runners and volunteers: perseverance, courage, and self-improvement. This is a common vision we have been building for nine years, around sports, local development, and culture."
A Commitment to Social Responsibility
Assurances Biat's involvement is also part of an ambitious CSR approach. After contributing to the development of a multipurpose room in Tozeur last year, the company is financing a multimedia room and a robotics club for young people in the region, offering new educational perspectives.
A Catalyst for Local Development
"The Ultra Mirage is not just a sports event; it has become a catalyst for development in the entire Djérid region. Local artisans, especially women, benefit from valuable visibility by showcasing their creations in the race village. Each participant leaves with a locally made souvenir, making the event a true cultural immersion," adds Masmoudi.
A Global Showcase for Tunisian Culture
This 9th edition confirms the Ultra Mirage El Djérid's place among the major international trail running events, while promoting the Tunisian South beyond borders. The event attracts hundreds of visitors, boosting the local economy and showcasing traditional crafts. Artisans from Tozeur, especially women, benefit from international visibility, exhibiting and selling their creations in the race village.
Learn more about the Ultra Mirage El Djérid 2025 Discover the event's photo gallery Watch the event's video coverage Read more about the event's social impact Explore the event's cultural activities Get an insider's look at the event's organization Learn more about the event's partners and sponsors
