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More than 10,000 athletes from 63 countries have registered for the 2026 Samarkand Marathon, organisers announced at a press conference ahead of the two-day event, which carries the newly awarded World Athletics Elite Label and will raise funds to build children’s sports playgrounds across Uzbekistan.
Mirkhan Sagitov, head of the Samarkand Marathon Series Organisation Department at the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation, appeared alongside several of the race’s headline competitors to outline the programme and share expectations. Among those present were world champions Leonard Barsoton, Reuben Narry and Dickson Kiprop of Kenya, and Mamo Mengistu of Ethiopia.
The registered field includes winners and participants of the Olympic Games, world championships and major international marathons, according to organisers. No further breakdown of national representation was provided at the press conference.
Farah to start the races
Legendary British distance runner Sir Mo Farah, a multiple Olympic and world champion, will attend as a special guest. He will officially start the races and take part in the award ceremonies for the winners, but is not competing.
The marathon recently received World Athletics Elite Label status, a designation that places it among a recognised tier of international road races under the sport’s global governing body. Organisers described the accreditation as prestigious, though they did not specify when it was granted.
Two days of racing
The opening day’s programme includes 2 km and 5 km races, a 2 km Nordic walking event, an inclusive race and Kids Run competitions. The main events take place on 8 November, when participants will contest the full marathon distance of 42.2 km and the half marathon of 21.1 km, alongside a 10 km race.
Registan Square, the historic centrepiece of Samarkand, will serve as both the starting and finishing point. Race routes will pass through the city’s historical and cultural landmarks, organisers said.
Proceeds from this year’s event are designated for the construction of children’s sports playgrounds across the country.