Jules Bianchi Karting Marathon: a 10th edition marked by emotion and solidarity

From September 12 to 14, 2025, the Circuit Paul Ricard hosted the Jules Bianchi Karting Marathon. Thirty-five teams and nearly 500 drivers took turns over more than 42 hours for a sporting challenge and a tribute to the late driver. The event raised €50,000 for the Jules Bianchi Association.

The race started on Friday evening at precisely 7:41 p.m. under clear skies. As every year, the unusual duration of the event made a lasting impression: 42 hours, 19 minutes, and 50 seconds of non-stop driving. The demanding mechanics put the strategy and endurance of the 35 teams involved to the test.

Each kart, a 270cc four-stroke, could reach speeds of up to 90 km/h. Behind the wheel, mandatory driver changes set the pace of the race, with between five and twenty drivers per team. Pit stops came thick and fast, as did changes in track conditions. After a sunny first day, rain made an appearance on Saturday, adding an extra layer of difficulty.

On Sunday at 2 p.m., Jean Alesi welcomed the arrival of this 10th edition. The former Formula 1 driver paid tribute to Jules Bianchi, who passed away in 2015, and recalled the purpose of this event: to bring together enthusiasts, professionals, and families in a spirit of solidarity.

Philippe Bianchi, organizer of the event and Jules’ father, emphasized the significance of this gathering: “It is a source of immense pride to see this enthusiasm grow year after year. Jules lives on in these moments of sharing, passion, and solidarity.”

Between competition and tribute

This year’s event brought together nearly 500 drivers. Amateurs, licensed drivers, and celebrities shared the track in a unique atmosphere. Benjamin Biolay, Camille Lacourt, Arnaud Tsamère, Catherine Davydzenka, and Stéphane Blancafort were among those who attended. Some, such as footballer Peter Luccin and influencer Idreau, were discovering the event for the first time, while others were returning participants.

Charles Leclerc, patron of the Jules Bianchi Association, was absent for family reasons but sent a video message to the participants. “Through this marathon, we are keeping Jules’ spirit alive: fighting spirit, generosity, and pushing oneself beyond one’s limits,” he said. The Monegasque driver promised to return in 2026 to take part in the 11th edition.

The special atmosphere was also felt in the paddocks and among the families who came to support the teams. The WebTV set up this year allowed viewers to follow the relays live, hosted by Lionel Chamouleau and Marie Caizz. Regular interviews gave a voice to the drivers, organizers, and volunteers, reinforcing the feeling of closeness with the public.

€50,000 for the Jules Bianchi Association

Beyond sport, the event retains a strong charitable focus. Created by Philippe and Christine Bianchi, the Jules Bianchi Association funds research into severe brain injuries and supports the Archet Hospital in Nice.

At the opening press conference, Philippe Bianchi reiterated the meaning behind this commitment: “When you experience this kind of event and you are lucky enough to have a son who is well-known, loved, and who has made a mark on people, you tell yourself that you have to do something. (…) So we support the Archet Hospital in Nice through the many initiatives we carry out, and once again, we will be able to donate €50,000 to them following this event. This allows us to help the hospital and keep Jules’ memory alive.“

Since its creation, the association has already provided several concrete forms of assistance, including specialized medical equipment to improve patient care. The money raised this weekend will further strengthen these efforts.

Ten years after Jules Bianchi’s death, the event continues to bring people together. The Karting Marathon carries a double legacy: that of an unusual sporting challenge and that of a tribute to a driver who was loved by the public and respected in the paddock.

The success of this 10th edition confirms the special place this event holds in the French sporting landscape. It also shows that a project born out of tragedy can become a unifying event, capable of combining competition, conviviality, and solidarity.

The next edition has already been announced. It will take place from October 2 to 4, 2026, once again at the Circuit Paul Ricard. Jules’ spirit will continue to hover over the track and in the hearts of those who come to race for him.

Source Article : https://www.nicepremium.fr/associations/marathon-karting-jules-bianchi-une-10ᵉ-edition-marquee-par-lemotion-et-la-solidarite/