Sofia is preparing to welcome up to 11,000 runners for the Wizz Air Sofia Marathon 2026, which will turn the capital into a major sporting venue on October 10 and 11. The event, Bulgaria's largest running competition, will feature five disciplines over two days, including a new 2 x 21 km relay race.
The organizers are expanding capacity following the record 2025 edition, which attracted more than 8,000 participants from 66 countries. International interest is expected to grow further this year, with the marathon also receiving a World Athletics Road Race Label in recognition of its organization, safety standards, course and participation of elite athletes.
Wizz Air will serve as the marathon's general sponsor for the ninth consecutive year. The airline, which has the largest market share in Bulgaria, said its involvement reflects its support for an active and healthy lifestyle while helping promote Bulgaria as a sports and tourism destination.
The first competitions will take place on October 10, when participants can choose between the 5 km mass run and the 10 km race. The following day will feature the 21 km half marathon, the traditional 42 km marathon and the new Relay Run, in which two runners divide the full marathon distance by completing 21 km each.
