New Delhi is set to witness one of its biggest sporting spectacles of the year as more than 30,000 runners prepare to take part in the 11th edition of the Cognizant New Delhi Marathon, scheduled for February 22, 2026.
With participation from across India and around the world, the event continues to cement its reputation as one of the country’s premier long-distance running competitions.
Certified as a National Marathon by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), recognised by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), and acknowledged by World Athletics, the marathon has steadily grown in stature to become a significant fixture on the global distance running calendar. This year’s race will be flagged off from the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium by Olympic medallist Vijender Singh and Olympian Rohan Bopanna, with runners set to navigate through some of the capital’s most iconic and historic routes.
The 2026 edition has attracted participants from 31 countries, 490 cities, and 32 States and Union Territories of India, underlining its international appeal. The marathon will feature four race categories — Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K — allowing athletes of varying experience levels to compete.
The Indian elite contingent includes some of the country’s leading long-distance runners such as Anish Thapa, Belliyappa, Man Singh Gopi T, Dr. Karthik, Akshay Saini, Bhagirathi Bisht, Nirmaben Thakor Bharatjee, Ashwini Madan Jadhav, Disket Dolma, and Stanzin Dolkar. Importantly, the event will also serve as a qualifying race for the upcoming Asian Games, offering athletes a crucial pathway to international representation.
In addition to elite competition, the marathon has maintained a strong focus on inclusivity. Approximately 20 vision-impaired athletes are expected to participate this year, reflecting the organisers’ commitment to making endurance sport accessible to all. The event has also contributed ₹10 lakh to the Athletics Federation of India’s Junior Development Programs, supporting grassroots initiatives aimed at nurturing future champions.
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Speaking ahead of the race, Nagaraj Adiga, Race Director and CMD of NEB Sports, highlighted the broader significance of the event. He described the marathon as a celebration of perseverance and unity, noting that it provides a platform for runners ranging from elite competitors to first-time participants to test their limits.
AFI Treasurer Stanley Jones emphasised the importance of the marathon in India’s high-performance ecosystem, pointing out that events of this scale play a vital role in identifying athletes capable of representing the country at major international competitions such as the Asian Games. He also acknowledged the continued support extended towards junior development programmes.
The event has received backing from several partners, including ASICS, which has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a growing running culture in India through its ‘Sound Mind, Sound Body’ philosophy. According to Managing Director Rajat Khurana, enabling access to appropriate training tools, recovery support, and knowledge can help runners build long-term resilience and consistency.
Sustainability remains a key pillar of this year’s marathon. Organisers have implemented waste segregation and recycling measures across the venue, while also collaborating with environmental organisations and local authorities to minimise the event’s ecological footprint. Participants are being encouraged to adopt greener practices as part of the initiative.
To facilitate smoother and more eco-friendly transportation on race day, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation will offer complimentary metro rides to and from the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium for runners carrying valid race bibs.
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Medical preparedness has also been prioritised, with Yashoda Medicity supporting the event’s healthcare infrastructure. Strategically placed medical stations staffed by trained professionals, fully equipped ambulances, hydration points at regular intervals, and emergency response teams will be deployed along the course to ensure participant safety throughout the race.
With large-scale participation, international representation, and a continued emphasis on inclusivity and sustainability, the Cognizant New Delhi Marathon 2026 is set to deliver a comprehensive race experience while further strengthening India’s distance running ecosystem.
