This international event was born from a reflection of the executive board of FC Sochaux Montbeliard Athletics in 1983 which aimed to organize a road race class in the image of his formidable team of runners consisting of several international headed Jacky Boxberger, the most gifted athletes of his generation (4 Olympics).

Several ideas have been proposed but the most attractive, in Montbéliard Belfort linking two major cities of the urban area located in two different departments, has attracted the attention of all. Despite the obvious burden of holding a "town to town" every member of the steering committee wanted the challenge. The half marathon was needed indeed for the distance but still had to name it. Among the proposals, "the Lion" has received the most votes as simple and inclusive, referring to the Peugeot Lion, the Lion of Bartholdi and the Franche Comte. The orientation given to LION was clear: "to quickly race one of the great French classics. The spirit of participation was also "The Lion competition for some, a challenge for others and this in a festive atmosphere.

On April 29, 1984 Jean Pierre Chevenement gave the departure of the 1st edition. 1 000 competitors set off on a morning rather cool towards Belfort Montbeliard. A winner, the Djibouti Ahmed Saleh, who revealed before becoming World Champion Marathon.

Then the lion fell more than 4 000 competitors, with nearly 40 000 spectators, the participation of 10 communities that are involved in security, refreshments, sponging, the musical entertainment on the course, and ... Winners of world renown.

The lion, with his label IAAF International, issued in 1987, was rewarded with:

* In 1994, the organization of the championships of France half marathon.
* In 1995, the highest honor, the World Championship with the participation of 60 nations and television reports around the world.
* In 1998, the organization of an International Youth Match, Juniors and Prospects, Men and Women, comprising Germany, France, Great Britain, Italy and Switzerland.
* In 2001, the organization of the championships of France half marathon.



The program LION has evolved over the years. A race of 10 km, a half marathon roller, a hike of 10 and 20 km, a mini LION youth, were added to the international half marathon.

The Lion, legendary race, the adventure continues with the loyalty of its participants, the enthusiasm of the public, 750 volunteers involved in its organization and partners without whom this event could not exist.