03/09/2025
The excitement is slowly becoming unbearable. 🥰 We are looking forward to this year's edition of the Gordon Bennett race, which will take place in Metz, France. Don't miss this event and visit the venue this weekend. If you can't be there in person, you can follow the event and the race online. We wish all teams a safe journey and good preparation in advance and look forward to seeing you there. Stay tuned!!! 🤩🥳🤩🥳🤩
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🌍🎈 The Gordon Bennett Race comes to Metz!
On 5 September 2025, the skies above Metz will host the 68th Coupe Aéronautique Gordon Bennett – the world’s oldest and most prestigious gas balloon race. 🚀
📍 Launch site: Plateau de Frescaty, a place steeped in aeronautical history.
Established in 1906 by American newspaper magnate James Gordon Bennett Jr., this legendary event challenges pilots to fly the longest possible distance without landing – a true test of strategy, endurance, and meteorological skill.
✨ This year, 24 international crews will take off from Metz, competing in the FAI World Long Distance Gas Balloon Championship. Alongside the race, a vibrant public programme will celebrate the 68th edition of this historic event.
🏆 Programme Highlights
4 Sept – Opening Ceremony
5 Sept – Balloon Launch (Race Day)*
13 Sept – Awards Ceremony
* 6–7 Sept reserved as backup launch dates in case of bad weather
FAI Ballooning