Major sporting events in Martinique: experience the island differently!
10/15/2025Martinique is not just a destination for beaches and coconut trees: it is also a land of challenges, passion and sporting achievements. Throughout the year, the island buzzes with iconic competitions that combine performance, tradition and spectacular scenery. Sailing, trail running, cycling and multisport raids… here are the must-see sporting events in Martinique, to experience or admire from the most beautiful corners of the island.
⛵ The Tour des Yoles Rondes: the soul of Martinique on the water
It is impossible to talk about sport in Martinique without mentioning the legendary Tour des Yoles Rondes. A true symbol of local culture, this competition, unique in the world, celebrates the yoles rondes, traditional boats that have become stars of the sea.
Every summer, between late July and early August, crews compete in a spectacular race around the island. Stage by stage, the whole of Martinique is transformed into a huge nautical stadium: music, crowded beaches, a festive atmosphere and popular fervour.
More than just a race, it is a celebration of Martinique’s heritage and courage.
⛵ The Transat Café L’OR: the great sailors in Fort-de-France
Martinique also hosts a high-level international event: the Transat Café L’OR. This transatlantic race connects Le Havre to Fort-de-France and attracts the world’s greatest sailors.
Every autumn, after several weeks at sea, the skippers cross the finish line to the applause of the Martinique public. The Fort-de-France seafront then becomes a veritable maritime village, brought to life by concerts, meetings and discussions about the sea and ecology.
It’s a highlight that puts Martinique on the world sailing map.
🚴 The Martinique International Cycling Tour: effort and beautiful landscapes
In July, it’s time for the Martinique International Cycling Tour! For ten days, the best local and foreign cyclists race along the island’s winding roads, between mountains, villages and the seaside.
Each stage has its share of suspense: spectacular climbs, technical descents, time trials… A demanding competition, closely followed by the public, which reveals the diversity of Martinique’s terrain and the inhabitants’ passion for sport.
🏃 The TransMartinique: a life-size adventure
For trail running enthusiasts and thrill seekers, the TransMartinique is an extraordinary experience. This race covers more than 130 kilometres, connecting the north and south of the island, from Grand-Rivière to Sainte-Anne.
Participants tackle impressive elevation gains, crossing tropical forests, rivers, beaches and volcanic mountains. It’s a true immersion in Martinique’s natural environment, reserved for the most enduring.
Every year in December, this event attracts runners from all over the world to push their limits in a picture-postcard setting.
🏃♀️ The Raid des Alizés: sport, nature and solidarity for women
Closing out the year, the Raid des Alizés honours women who are athletic and supportive of each other. Over several days, all-female teams compete in trail running, mountain biking, canoeing and orienteering events.
Each edition is also a commitment: participants run to support charitable organisations. Combining competition and mutual support, the Raid des Alizés offers a unique human and sporting experience in the heart of the island’s most beautiful natural landscapes.
An island that lives to the rhythm of sport
Each of these events, in its own way, highlights Martinique’s sporting diversity and vitality.
They bring together thousands of enthusiasts, strengthen local cohesion, and offer visitors a different way to discover the island: vibrant, authentic, and full of energy.