Dreaming of taking part in the UTMB®? Until 2021, you had to collect ITRA points by completing several qualifying races. Since 2022, this system has changed: the organisers introduced a new system based on the UTMB Index and Running Stones. Here is what you need to know to enter.
Before 2022: the ITRA points system
Each qualifying race awarded a certain number of ITRA (International Trail Running Association) points, depending on its distance and elevation gain. The scoring system itself evolved: until the reform in the early 2020s, you had to gather 15 points in three races maximum for the flagship event. After the scale was revamped to cap each race at 6 points, the requirement became 10 points in two races maximum, within a 2-year window.
This system, well known to trail runners, was phased out in 2022 in favour of a more integrated ecosystem.
New entry rules: UTMB Index and Running Stones
To try your luck at the UTMB®, you now need to meet two conditions:
- Have a valid UTMB Index in the corresponding category or categories (100K or 100M for the flagship UTMB® race)
- Hold at least one Running Stone, acquired by taking part in a race on the UTMB World Series circuit
The UTMB Index measures your performance level across different distances (20K, 50K, 100K, 100M). It is automatically earned by completing UTMB Index-labelled races. Running Stones, on the other hand, act as lottery tickets: the more you collect, the higher your chances.
Understanding the fundamental difference between the two is key. The Index determines your eligibility to enter, while Running Stones determine your chances of being drawn. A great Index does not exempt you from the lottery.
How is the UTMB Index calculated?
An Index is calculated independently for each of the 4 distance categories (20K, 50K, 100K, 100M): it is activated as soon as a race in the category is completed within the last 24 months, then calculated on the average of your top 5 results over the last 36 months in that category. A General Index, based on all your results across all categories, is also available as soon as at least one category is validated.
ITRA points vs UTMB Index: what is the difference?
Both ranking systems still exist side by side and are similar, each using a 0 to 1,000 scale, but they are not identical and may differ slightly from runner to runner depending on the races counted and the adjustments applied by each body. Above all, remember this: to register for the UTMB®, only the UTMB Index is taken into account.
You can check your UTMB Index on the official UTMB World website, and your ITRA score on the official ITRA ranking.
In summary
ITRA points are no longer required. You need: 1 Running Stone and 1 valid UTMB Index. Choose your races on the UTMB World Series circuit to qualify.
Frequently asked questions
How many ITRA points do you need for the UTMB®?
None. ITRA points have no longer been an entry requirement since 2022. The question is still frequently asked because the system defined a generation of trail runners, but it is no longer relevant.
How many Running Stones do you need?
Just one is enough to enter. Accumulating more does not grant additional rights, but increases your chances in the lottery.
Is a Running Stone lost if you are not selected in the lottery?
No. They remain valid and boost your chances in subsequent entries, within the limits of their validity period.
