Athletes from over 60 countries to compete in Samarkand Marathon 2026
The Samarkand Marathon 2026 international charity race kicks off today in Samarkand.
Ahead of the event, a press conference was held with the participation of marathon organizers and athletes.
Mirkhan Sagitov, Head of the Samarkand Marathon Series Organization Department at the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation, along with world champions Leonard Barsoton, Reuben Narry and Dickson Kiprop of Kenya, Mamo Mengistu of Ethiopia and other athletes, shared their views on the Samarkand Marathon and their expectations for this year’s event.
More than 10,000 athletes from 63 countries have registered for this year’s competition. Among them are winners and participants of the Olympic Games, world championships and major international marathons.
Notably, the Samarkand Marathon charity race recently received the prestigious World Athletics Elite Label status from World Athletics.
Legendary British athlete Sir Mo Farah, a multiple Olympic and world champion, will attend this year’s Samarkand Marathon as a special guest. He will officially start the races and take part in the award ceremonies for the winners.
Today’s marathon program includes 2 km and 5 km races, a 2 km Nordic walking event, an inclusive race and Kids Run competitions.
On November 8, participants will compete in the full marathon (42.2 km) and the half marathon (21.1 km). A 10 km race will also take place.
Registan Square will serve as both the starting and finishing point of the marathon. The race routes will take participants past Samarkand’s historical and cultural landmarks.
This year, proceeds from the marathon will be used to build children’s sports playgrounds across Uzbekistan.
[gallery-32398]]
G. Hasanov, photos by A. Isroilov, UzA
