Every summer since 1962, La Marseillaise organises an event without equal anywhere in the world: 4,000 triplets of pétanque competing in the heart of Marseille for six days. Not in a closed stadium, not on a stage: in the streets, on the Vieux-Port, in parc Borély. When the Mondial starts, the whole city becomes a giant boules pitch.
Six days, 16,000 players and a format unique in the world
The Mondial La Marseillaise à pétanque traditionally takes place the first week of July. The first matches begin at dawn on Saturday, and the final is played the following Thursday evening. The format is unique: a direct knock-out tournament open to everyone, professionals and amateurs alike. You pay your entry, form your triplet, and play against world champions from round one if the draw decides so.
The pitches are scattered across the city, parc Borély, La Garde boulodrome, neighbourhood squares. Count about a hundred active pitches simultaneously on the first day. Parc Borély hosts the final phases, transformed into a giant arena with stands, screens and commentators on microphone.
An atmosphere you don't see anywhere else
Marseillais turn up as families, retirees come by whole coachloads from the Var and Vaucluse, and enthusiasts roll in from all over France to watch the quarter and semi-finals. Last year, more than 150,000 spectators passed through the tournament sites. The scent of pastis floats over the pitches, judge-referees measure with folding tape, and between matches players discuss technique under the plane trees.
What strikes me every year is the mix. On the same pitch, you can see a Septèmes retiree taking on a Moroccan world champion, or three 16-year-old kids holding their own against a sponsored team. No frills, no star system. Just the boules, the sand and the carreau.
Getting around during Mondial week
Traffic and parking information is communicated by the organisers and the town hall before the event: check it before you set off. MR Taxi drops you as close as possible and picks you up at the exit, from all towns in the region, at the guaranteed maximum price announced at booking. If the place is hard to reach, I will give you an easily accessible meeting point.
It is advisable to book at least 24 hours ahead, but even at the last minute I adapt and find a solution. Estimate your trip on the Private transport page or contact us.
Private taxi: the solution for players and spectators
I transport full triplets to the Mondial sites every year, with their boules bags, coolers and good humour. The van lets you load six people plus luggage in one go. For the finals, many Marseillais prefer to book a transfer from their suburb to enjoy the pastis without worrying about getting back.
MR Taxi Marseille is available 24/7 throughout Mondial week. Book in advance for the final phases, demand is very high on evening slots. Immediate online quote or direct booking on 06 98 46 63 34.
