site.btaSofia Marathon Sets Participation Record with Over 10,600 Runners

More than 10,600 participants have registered for the 43rd Wizz Air Sofia Marathon, making this year's race the largest in its history. Interest in the Sofia Marathon continues to grow rapidly, with registration quotas for the 42 km classic marathon and the 21 km Address Run half-marathon filled 10 days before regular registration closes on September 20.

The organizers, Sport in the Free Time Association, secured an additional 100 places for the marathon and 500 for the half-marathon. Registration for the 10 km Garmin and 5 km FIB Mass Run events, as well as the 2x21 km-long HONOR Together Relay Run, will remain open until the end of September or until the respective quotas are filled. The current number of available places can be checked on the official registration page.

The 5 km and 10 km races will start on Saturday, October 10, while participants in the classic marathon, half-marathon and relay will take to the streets of Sofia on Sunday, October 11.

The international presence at Wizz Air Sofia Marathon 2026 is also growing significantly. More than 1,400 runners from 65 countries have already registered, following a targeted international campaign and the opening of registration at the beginning of the year.

The route passes a number of landmark sites and architectural and cultural attractions that tell the city's history and showcase its diverse cultural heritage. The growing international interest in the marathon is an important step in promoting Sofia as a modern European destination for active tourism, combining two strong travel motivations: sport and experience.

For the third consecutive year, the thousands of runners will be accompanied by a musical programme on several stages at key points along the route. Located near refreshment stations, the stages will turn the course not only into a sporting challenge but also into a celebration for participants and spectators. 

Organizers and marathon partners will provide food and drinks at the refreshment stations, adapted to the high energy needs of runners in all disciplines. Information on the final route, the upcoming opening of the marathon's traditional expo area and the cultural programme will be published shortly.