Lilshira
Samarkand Marathon Series 2026 scheduled for 7–8 November in Uzbekistan
The Samarkand Marathon Series 2026 will be held on 7–8 November in the historic city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan, attracting runners from 63 countries. The event launches on those dates and targets international athletes, recreational participants and tourists.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Samarkand Marathon Series 2026 adds five race distances and new environmental programmes
- Timing
- Event runs on 7–8 November 2026
- Who is affected
- International runners, children and inclusive participants, plus tourists
The details
- Announced by
- Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan
- Takes effect
- 7–8 November 2026
- New rule
- The 2026 edition features five distances (2 km, 5 km, 10 km, half‑marathon, marathon), a Nordic‑walking event, children’s races, inclusive competitions, cultural tours and a Cleaner Than Before sustainability programme.
Event Overview
The Samarkand Marathon Series 2026 is scheduled for 7–8 November in Samarkand, a UNESCO‑listed city on the ancient Silk Road. More than 1,500 participants from 63 countries have registered, combining competitive running with cultural sightseeing and community activities.
- Two‑day programme includes an opening expo, races, morning running tours and evening concerts
- Start line located at Registan Square, linking sport with historic architecture
Race Distances and Participation
Five official distances cater to elite athletes and casual runners alike: 2 km, 5 km, 10 km, 21.1 km (half‑marathon) and 42.2 km (marathon). A 2‑km Nordic‑walking event expands non‑running options. Dedicated children’s races and inclusive competitions ensure broader community involvement.
- Kids Run events introduce younger participants to organised sport
- Inclusive races provide opportunities for athletes with different abilities
Environmental and Cultural Initiatives
The Cleaner Than Before initiative aims to cut plastic use, promote reusable items and set up separate waste‑collection streams. An environmental points system and plogging activities encourage participants to keep Samarkand clean while they run.
Morning running tours and a curated sightseeing itinerary (Gur‑e‑Amir Mausoleum, Shah‑i‑Zinda, Siab Bazaar) let runners experience the city’s heritage and cuisine.
- Plogging combines running with litter collection for a cleaner city
- Cultural tours connect athletes with historic monuments and local food
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers with existing bookings should note that race start times begin at Registan Square on 7 November.
- Visitors can join morning running tours on both days to combine sport with sightseeing.
Cost and documents
- No new entry fees are mentioned beyond standard race registration.
- Participants are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles to support the sustainability programme.
What you need to do
- Runners must register before the event date to secure a race slot.
- Those interested in plogging should sign up for the activity during the expo.
Who this affects
-
International runners
More than 1,500 athletes from 63 countries have registered for the 2026 marathon.
What to do Register for the desired distance and plan travel to Samarkand for 7–8 November.
-
Children participants
The programme includes dedicated Kids Run competitions.
What to do Enroll children in the Kids Run events during registration.
-
Inclusive race participants
Inclusive competitions are part of the official schedule.
What to do Sign up for the inclusive race category appropriate to ability level.
-
Eco‑conscious tourists
The Cleaner Than Before initiative promotes waste reduction and plogging.
What to do Bring reusable items and join plogging activities if desired.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Samarkand Marathon 2026?
The Samarkand Marathon Series 2026 takes place on 7–8 November 2026, with races starting at Registan Square.
How many race distances are offered in 2026?
Five distances are available: 2 km, 5 km, 10 km, half‑marathon (21.1 km) and marathon (42.2 km), plus a 2‑km Nordic‑walking event.
Can children participate in the Samarkand Marathon?
Yes, dedicated Kids Run competitions are included in the programme for younger participants.
What environmental initiatives are part of the marathon?
The Cleaner Than Before programme reduces plastic, promotes reusable items, adds separate waste collection and runs a plogging activity for participants.
Are there cultural activities for runners?
Morning running tours, sightseeing itineraries and an evening concert are offered to let participants explore Samarkand’s heritage and cuisine.
