Global Athletes, Elite Indian Runners Gear Up for New Delhi Marathon 2026

Olympic medallist boxer Vijender Singh and tennis ace Rohan Bopanna will flag off the 11th edition of the Cognizant New Delhi Marathon from the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Sunday, promising one of India’s most inspiring sporting spectacles of the year. Certified as a National Marathon by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and recognised globally by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) and World Athletics , the event is expected to attract over 30,000 runners from 31 countries, 490 cities, and 32 states and Union Territories of India, highlighting its growing international appeal.

This year’s marathon features four race categories — the full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon (21.1 km), 10K run, and 5K fun run — catering to elite athletes, amateur runners, and first-time participants alike. The elite Indian contingent includes Anish Thapa, A.B. Belliappa, Man Singh, Akshay Saini, T. Gopi, Bhagirathi Bisht, Nirmaben Thakor Bharatjee, Ashwini Madan Jadhav, Disket Dolma, and Stanzin Dolkar , while participants from across the world will compete on a fast, flat route designed to encourage peak performance. The marathon also serves as a qualifying race for the upcoming Asian Games , providing a vital opportunity for top performers to secure a place on the national team.

In addition to athletic achievement, the marathon offers significant prizes to recognise top performers. Elite winners of the full marathon will each receive ₹2 lakh, with prizes awarded to runners-up and top finishers in all race categories. Age-group champions and high performers in the half marathon and 10K runs will also be rewarded, making the event a competitive yet inclusive celebration of fitness. Participants will benefit from timing chips, race bibs, official T-shirts, finisher medals, hydration and nutrition support, and medical assistance, ensuring a smooth and memorable race experience.

The event also embraces inclusivity and social impact, hosting approximately 20 visually-impaired athletes and raising ₹10 lakh for the AFI’s Junior Development Programs , aimed at nurturing grassroots athletics in India. Race Director and CMD of NEB Sports, Nagaraj Adiga , described the marathon as more than a race, calling it a celebration of perseverance, unity, and human spirit, where every runner — from elite athletes to first-timers — can achieve something extraordinary. Rajesh Varrier , President – Global Operations and CMD of Cognizant India, added that the marathon inspires all participants to push their limits and reinforces its stature as one of Asia’s premier long-distance events.

AFI treasurer Stanley Jones highlighted that competitions of this stature are crucial in preparing India’s long-distance runners for major international events like the Asian Games. In addition, the marathon continues its focus on environmental sustainability, with initiatives including waste segregation, recycling, partnerships with environmental organisations, and promotion of greener practices among participants, making it a truly eco-friendly sporting event. With its record turnout, global participation, and celebration of athletic excellence, the Cognizant New Delhi Marathon 2026 is set to be a memorable highlight of the Indian sporting calendar.