The 2026 Belfast City Marathon will feature a new team relay format with five distinct legs, offering a unique challenge for participants. This marathon is scheduled for May 3, 2026, and is expected to attract thousands of runners.
The team relay consists of five segments with different distances:
- Leg 1: From Stormont Estate to Montgomery Road, covering 4.2 miles.
- Leg 2: From Montgomery Road to Boucher Road, covering 6.8 miles.
- Leg 3: From Boucher Road to Falls Road, covering 4.5 miles.
- Leg 4: From Falls Road to Duncairn Gardens, covering 5 miles.
- Leg 5: From Duncairn Gardens to Ormeau Park, covering 5.7 miles.
A shuttle bus service will operate from Annadale Embankment to the relay changeover points between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. This service aims to facilitate participant transport on race day.
Parking will be available at the Stormont Complex for free on marathon day. Additionally, discounted parking options exist at Q-Park and APCOA car parks.
All transport services for the marathon will be free for both spectators and participants, excluding rail services. Early morning train services will run from Derry, Larne, Bangor, and Newry to Belfast on race day.
The Belfast City Marathon has been an annual event since its inception, marking its 44th occurrence in 2026. Officials expect a vibrant atmosphere in the city as runners and spectators gather for this significant occasion.
