Results: 2026
Takuro Kumagai won the Namib Race outright in 26:53:21, with Michaela Punz-Raml the women's winner in 31:05:20.
| Category | Name | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Overall / Men | Takuro Kumagai (Japan) | 26:53:21 |
| Women | Michaela Punz-Raml (Austria) | 31:05:20 |
Namibia is not on RacingThePlanet's announced 2027 calendar; the 2027 roving race is RacingThePlanet: Brazil.
Source: RacingThePlanet — Namib Race 2026 final results. Checked September 14, 2026.
Event Overview
| Date | Aug 16-22, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Location | Namib Desert, Namibia |
| Format | Stage Race |
| Terrain | Desert |
| Region | Africa |
| Distance / duration | 250 km |
| Cutoff | Stage cutoffs apply; runners must pass checkpoints and complete every stage to finish. |
| Highlights | 4 Deserts Series |
Course & Terrain
Self-supported 4 Deserts stage race covering roughly 250 km over six stages and seven days.
Key course features to know before comparing this race:
- Namib Desert route
- Sand dunes, salt pans, dry riverbeds, and gravel plains
- Part of the 4 Deserts Ultramarathon Series
Expect varied desert footing rather than a simple road course: soft sand, hardpack, dry riverbeds, and open exposed terrain.
The Namib can be hot, dry, windy, and exposed by day, with cooler nights in camp.
Format & Support (as run)
| Qualification | RacingThePlanet entrants ran self-supported desert stages, carrying mandatory equipment through remote race conditions. |
|---|---|
| Support model | Camps, checkpoints, drinking water, medical support, course marking, and race operations are supplied; runners carry food and mandatory gear. |
Why This Race Matters
Namib Race is a useful reference point for runners comparing stage race events. Its format, terrain, and support model shape the kind of preparation required: not just fitness, but pacing discipline, nutrition planning, foot care, and the ability to make good decisions under fatigue.
Best Fit
- Experienced stage-race runners who want a classic 4 Deserts event
- Athletes comfortable carrying food and mandatory equipment
- Runners prepared for remote desert conditions
Planning Notes
- Study the mandatory gear list early and rehearse carrying the exact pack weight you expect to use on race day.
- Heat, sun, and dry air require event-specific preparation. Test sun protection and cooling, drink in response to thirst, and remember that sodium cannot make overdrinking safe.
- The directory does not mark this as having simpler logistics. Confirm qualification, terrain, support, registration, medical, and withdrawal requirements before planning around it.
Event FAQs
Is the Namib Race self-supported?
Yes. It follows the RacingThePlanet stage-race model where competitors carry food and mandatory equipment while the organizer supplies camps, water, checkpoints, and medical support.
How long is the Namib Race?
The event is listed as a 250 km race over six stages in the Namib Desert.
Related Preparation
- Compare this race in the full 2026 calendar
- Browse the multiday stage-race calendar
- Open the Stage Race format guide
- Compare all race formats
- Use the timed-race pace calculator
- Plan checkpoint arrivals and cutoff buffers
- Build a crew and drop-bag plan
- Build a race-specific gear checklist
Verification & Sources
Verification scope: the listed edition's date, location, format, and available logistics were checked against the event-specific official sources below during the directory review dated June 2026. Organizers can revise details after review.
- Official Namib Race page — https://racingtheplanet.com/namibrace
- Multiday Running event directory review scope: June 2026.