BRLOS Itupeva

The Brasil Last One Standing (BRLOS) 2026 is a unique ultra-endurance event following the "Backyard Ultra" concept created by the legendary Lazarus Lake. Now under the management of LOOP Ultra, the 2026 edition is scheduled to begin on Friday, May 1, 2026 (a public holiday in Brazil), in the city of Itupeva, São Paulo. Unlike traditional races, this is a survival competition where athletes must complete a 6.7 km (4.2 mile) loop every hour on the hour until only one runner remains.

The Backyard Ultra format is a test of consistency and mental fortitude rather than pure speed. The course consists of dirt roads with manageable elevation, but the challenge lies in the repetition. Runners who fail to complete the loop within the 60-minute window or fail to be at the starting line for the next hour are automatically eliminated. The race continues indefinitely—day and night—until only one participant can complete a solo loop.

Itupeva is a rapidly growing municipality in the state of São Paulo, located approximately 70 km from the capital, with a population of about 63,000 residents. Part of the Jundiaí micro-region, Itupeva has transitioned from a primarily agricultural economy (focused on grapes and strawberries) to a hub for logistics, industry, and tourism. The town is a favorite destination for cyclists and trail runners from the São Paulo metropolitan area due to its rolling hills and extensive network of rural roads.

The local culture is a blend of traditional Paulista countryside values and modern sports tourism. The Pesqueiro Nova Era, the event's venue, exemplifies this, offering a rural, family-friendly environment that serves as a "backyard" for the community. The demographic in Itupeva is diverse, with many residents commuting to nearby industrial centers, while the local "cycling tourism" (cicloturismo) has fostered a welcoming environment for endurance athletes. Hosting a world-circuit event like the BRLOS places Itupeva on the international ultra-running map, attracting athletes from across Brazil and South America.

Because the race can last for multiple days, the organizers provide extensive support for athletes and their crews. A full camping area is available for setup starting April 30th, allowing teams to establish "pit stops" for rest between loops. The registration includes comprehensive nutrition designed for extreme endurance, featuring fruits, sweets, and high-carb options like pasta and potato puree served during the night and early morning hours to sustain those still in the running.

In keeping with the global Backyard Ultra franchise norms, the primary trophy is awarded only to the "Last One Standing" and the top finisher of the opposite sex. However, to celebrate participation, all runners who complete at least two full loops (13.4 km) receive a finisher's medal. Participants also receive a commemorative t-shirt and a mug, which is used for hydration throughout the event to reduce waste. For those traveling from outside the region, several hotels in Itupeva, such as the Itupeva Plaza and ITR SPA, offer specialized support for the influx of athletes and supporters during the Labor Day holiday weekend.