Marathon Faces Major Shake-Up - World Athletics

Marathon Faces Major Shake-Up - World Athletics 

Sampson Adedeji

Global governing body World Athletics has announced a significant restructuring of marathon competition, with plans to introduce a standalone World Marathon Championships beginning in 2030, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Under the new framework, the marathon will remain part of the World Athletics Championships programme for the 2027 and 2029 editions. 

However, from 2031 onward, the event will be removed from the main championships as part of a broader shift in focus for road running disciplines.

The newly created World Marathon Championships will be staged annually, marking a major departure from the traditional championship cycle. 

In a unique format, the men’s and women’s races will be held in alternate years, a move aimed at enhancing visibility and competitive balance.

Historic marathon city Athens has emerged as the preferred host for the inaugural edition in 2030, further underlining its enduring link to the origins of the race.

The decision signals a transformative moment for long-distance running, as World Athletics seeks to elevate the profile of the marathon through a dedicated global event.