Speaking at the opening ceremony on July 17 at East Sea Park, Le Van Anh, a representative of the organizing committee, said this year's event recorded a 50% increase in participation compared with the previous edition. The race also drew elite athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia and Japan, as well as runners from across Europe.
According to the organizers, the participation of international runners contributed to the event's competitive standard, while recreational runners helped promote Da Nang as a destination for sports tourism.
Tao Viet Hai, Deputy Director of Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, speaks at an event as part of the VnExpress Da Nang International Marathon Herbalife Cup 2026. Photo by Duc Dong
Tao Viet Hai, deputy director of the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said the turnout reflected the growing popularity of running in Vietnam as well as the appeal of both Da Nang and the VnExpress Marathon series.
Hai described the event as one of the city's annual sporting highlights, saying it encourages public participation in running while showcasing Da Nang to domestic and international visitors.
