Jerusalem Marathon 2026 proceeds as a sign of resilience

The 15th Winner Jerusalem Marathon will go ahead after City Hall approved the event following a recent ceasefire; the full marathon distance was cancelled because of weather and those runners were moved to the half marathon.

The 15th Winner Jerusalem Marathon is set to take place after City Hall issued last-minute approval following a recent ceasefire and a situational review. Organizers had to balance security concerns, weather forecasts, and participant numbers while planning the event. The full marathon (42.2 km) was cancelled on Tuesday night for weather-related reasons and those registered were reassigned to the half marathon. Organizers and municipal leaders framed the event as a communal expression of resilience and routine. What is known: - City Hall approved the marathon after a situational assessment carried out following a recent ceasefire. - The full marathon course (42.2 km) was cancelled due to weather concerns; full-distance registrants were automatically moved to the half marathon. - More than 40,000 people are registered to take part, including over 900 international runners. - The event will include five race categories: half marathon (21.1 km), 10 km, 5 km, the family race (1.7 km), and the community run (0.8 km). - Organizers have adjusted start times for some tracks and are allowing participants to upgrade or downgrade race categories this year. - The marathon will be run according to Home Front Command regulations and officials said safety is a priority. Summary: Organizers and city officials describe the event as both a sporting occasion and a community gesture amid recent unrest, noting unusually high registration and last-minute adaptations. The full marathon distance was cancelled and race schedules and entries have been adjusted; further operational details are being implemented under Home Front Command rules.