Heatwave in France Causes Death and Multiple Hospitalizations During Running Events

On Sunday, May 24, 2026, a heatwave sweeping across France led to serious health emergencies during various running events, including a tragic fatality. In Paris, a 53-year-old man collapsed during a race and despite nearly two hours of resuscitation attempts by Protection Civile, he died. Isabelle Penafiel, president of the Paris sport club, confirmed the participant suffered a respiratory arrest following his sudden collapse.

Meanwhile, intense heat also impacted events outside Paris. In Maisons-Alfort, ten severe and six mild health incidents prompted firefighters to call off the event for safety reasons. In Menton, where temperatures surpassed 30°C, three participants required hospitalizations with one entering a coma, leading Jean-Michel Fauritte, race director of the Sun Race, to cancel the 5km race to avoid further harm.

In light of these incidents, the French Ministry of Sports, Youth, and Associative Life has issued a warning urging athletes, coaches, and organizers to exercise extreme caution amid the ongoing heatwave. Minister Marina Ferrari stressed the importance of avoiding outdoor sports during peak heat hours when temperatures exceed 32°C, staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing, and performing gradual warm-ups. She extended condolences to the victim’s family and highlighted the crucial need for vigilance to maintain safety in sports.

These measures come amid increasing concerns about exercising in extreme temperatures, emphasizing the serious health risks posed by heatwaves to participants in outdoor physical activities across France.