Baku: A total of 25,000 participants have registered for the ‘Baku Marathon 2026,’ which will be held this Sunday at the initiative of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, APA reports.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, participants from various countries, including the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Russia, Turkey, and Ukraine, will join Azerbaijani citizens in competing for victory. The event aims to bring together runners from diverse backgrounds and provide a platform for them to showcase their athletic abilities.
As in previous years, individuals with disabilities, including those with Down syndrome, will also take part in this year’s race. This inclusive approach highlights the marathon’s commitment to promoting sports for all and ensuring equal opportunities for participation.
The marathon will be held for the first time over a distance of 42 km, with the starting point at the National Flag Square and the finish at the “Sea Breeze” area. Participants will compete for the first three places on the running track, adding a competitive edge to the event.
Note that recently, a new world record was set at the London Marathon on April 26. Kenyan athlete Sebastian Sawe broke the world record by completing the 42.195 km distance in 1 hour, 59 minutes, and 30 seconds. In the women’s race, Ethiopian athlete Tigst Assefa won with a time of 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 41 seconds. These remarkable achievements have set high standards for marathons worldwide, inspiring participants of the upcoming Baku Marathon.