WTR Pipa

The WTR Pipa 2026 marks a historic milestone as the World Trail Races (WTR) debuts in the Northeast region of Brazil for the first time. Scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026, this event takes place in the iconic setting of Tibau do Sul, specifically in the world-renowned village of Pipa. The race is classified as a WTR 2.5 mil event for those competing in the WTR Trail Run Ranking, offering athletes a chance to earn significant points while navigating one of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in the country.

Tibau do Sul is a coastal municipality in Rio Grande do Norte with a population of approximately 17,300 residents. The district of Pipa, originally a small fishing village, has evolved into a cosmopolitan tourist destination famous for its massive cliffs, Atlantic Forest preserves, and diverse marine life, including dolphins and sea turtles. Demographically, the region has a unique mix of local residents and a significant international community of expats who have settled there. The economy is almost entirely driven by high-end tourism and ecological hospitality, with a local culture that blends traditional Potiguar heritage with a modern, environmentally conscious "surf and trail" vibe.

The local culture in Pipa is defined by its Preservation and Adventure spirit. The trails often cross through the Santuário Ecológico de Pipa, a private reserve that protects the remaining fragments of the Atlantic Forest. For the local community, hosting the WTR debut is a major boost to the sports tourism sector, reinforcing Pipa’s status as more than just a beach destination. The Arena WTR, located on Rua das Acácias, will serve as the social heart of the event, offering a food park, entertainment, and recovery zones including cryotherapy and free massages, creating a festive atmosphere for both athletes and spectators.

The participant experience at the WTR Pipa is designed to be comprehensive, merging high-performance racing with leisure. Athletes have access to the WTR Store and various sponsor activations, while the Kids Race ensures that the next generation is introduced to the values of outdoor sports. By May 2nd, the reddish cliffs and blue waters of Tibau do Sul will provide the backdrop for an unprecedented trail running challenge, marking a new chapter for the World Trail Races in the Brazilian Northeast.