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Major Paris Sporting Events

Parisians enjoy a wide variety of Sporting events throughout the year. Football and rugby are big favorites in the sporting world, but there are many other activities to enjoy in Paris. Cycling is popular and well known in Paris and around the world. France is home to one of tennis's major opens. It was also the location of the very first Grand Prix in the world of Formula One car racing. If you want to participate in a sports activity rather than watching it try running a marathon in Paris. No matter what sports you like, or what time of year you visit Paris there is sure to be something you will enjoy.

Tennis

The French Open is part of the world famous Grand Slam tennis tournaments along with The US Open, The Australian Open and Wimbledon. The French Open began in 1891 when it was a French only tournament played in Paris's Stade Français. The tournament then became international and had a dedicated stadium built. This stadium is Roland Garros. It is located within Paris city limited in the 16^th arrondissement. Roland Garros, built in 1928 is going to begin major renovations as of 2011. The French Open is unique and famous for its clay tennis courts making it one of the most famous tennis tournaments in the world.

Car Racing

Formula One car racing has a long history in France. The French Grand Prix was the first race of its kind in 1906. Throughout its hundred plus year history the French Grand Prix has been raced at many different tracks throughout the country. While the French are still big Formula One fans, there is no longer a French Grand Prix. After the 2008 race the French Grand Prix has been canceled due to financial reasons. There is no clear answer if and when there will be another race. However, you can find local car races all over France.

Cycling

Perhaps the most famous endurance event of all time, the Tour de France makes its grand finale right in central Paris. After cycling for 3,479 kilometers, the riders fly through downtown Paris ending the race on the Champs-Élysées. Thousands of spectators watch the various stages of the Tour de France as riders go though the countryside and mountains, but no where are there more spectators than in Paris. This final stage of the race has an incredible energy as you get to watch some of the greatest athletes in the world.

Running

If you want to become an endurance athlete and not just watch them, try running the Paris International Marathon. For over 30 years there has been a marathon running 26 miles of Parisian streets. The Paris marathon is the 5^th largest in the world, and hosts some of the world's best runners. Whether you are watching or running, this marathon hold gorgeous views of the city. The course goes past just about every famous Parisian sight such as the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, and the Bastille.

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Major Paris Sporting Events