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The Shanghai Marathon is a prestigious World Athletics Platinum Label road race and Abbott World Marathon Majors candidate that showcases the historic Bund and modern skyline of China’s largest city.
Course Highlights
The Shanghai Marathon offers one of the most spectacular urban courses in the world, beginning at the historic Bund. Runners start near the iconic Bund Bull on East Zhongshan Road No. 1, with the colonial-era architecture on one side and the futuristic skyline of Lujiazui across the Huangpu River. The route winds through the heart of the city, taking participants along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, through the tranquil Jing’an Temple area, and down the stylish Huaihai Road. The course continues through the Xuhui District, passing modern art hubs and riverside paths before reaching the grand finale at the Xujiahui Sports Park, providing a comprehensive tour of Shanghai’s rich heritage and rapid modernization.
Race Details
The 2026 Shanghai Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, December 6, 2026. The main marathon event begins at 07:00 AM, following the wheelchair marathon start at 06:45 AM. To accommodate its 30,000 participants, the race utilizes a wave start system to ensure a smooth flow for all runners. The event is strictly timed, with a general cut-off time of six hours. Professional support is provided throughout the course, including refreshment stations every few kilometers offering water, energy drinks, and sponges. Participants are required to collect their race packs at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center in the days leading up to the event, where they must present valid identification.
Why Runners Love It
As a World Athletics Platinum Label race and a candidate for the Abbott World Marathon Majors, the Shanghai Marathon is recognized for its elite standards and impeccable organization. Runners are drawn to the race not only for its fast, relatively flat course—ideal for setting personal bests—but also for the electric atmosphere. The streets are lined with thousands of enthusiastic spectators, and the “Shangma” culture emphasizes a “runner-first” philosophy that is evident in everything from the volunteer support to the high-quality finisher medals. Joining the ranks of the world’s most prestigious marathons, it offers a truly global racing experience in one of the most dynamic cities on the planet.
Ready to experience the heart of Shanghai on foot? Visit the official website to view entry requirements, lottery dates, and registration details: Shanghai Marathon Official Website.
At a Glance
- Location: Shanghai, Shanghai — China
- Next Date: 2026-12-06
- Distances: [‘Marathon’, ‘Wheelchair Marathon’]
- Start Time: 07:00
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.shang-ma.com/
The Shanghai Marathon is a prestigious World Athletics Platinum Label road race and Abbott World Marathon Majors candidate that showcases the historic Bund and modern skyline of China’s largest city.
Course Highlights
The Shanghai Marathon offers one of the most spectacular urban courses in the world, beginning at the historic Bund. Runners start near the iconic Bund Bull on East Zhongshan Road No. 1, with the colonial-era architecture on one side and the futuristic skyline of Lujiazui across the Huangpu River. The route winds through the heart of the city, taking participants along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, through the tranquil Jing’an Temple area, and down the stylish Huaihai Road. The course continues through the Xuhui District, passing modern art hubs and riverside paths before reaching the grand finale at the Xujiahui Sports Park, providing a comprehensive tour of Shanghai’s rich heritage and rapid modernization.
Race Details
The 2026 Shanghai Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, December 6, 2026. The main marathon event begins at 07:00 AM, following the wheelchair marathon start at 06:45 AM. To accommodate its 30,000 participants, the race utilizes a wave start system to ensure a smooth flow for all runners. The event is strictly timed, with a general cut-off time of six hours. Professional support is provided throughout the course, including refreshment stations every few kilometers offering water, energy drinks, and sponges. Participants are required to collect their race packs at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center in the days leading up to the event, where they must present valid identification.
Why Runners Love It
As a World Athletics Platinum Label race and a candidate for the Abbott World Marathon Majors, the Shanghai Marathon is recognized for its elite standards and impeccable organization. Runners are drawn to the race not only for its fast, relatively flat course—ideal for setting personal bests—but also for the electric atmosphere. The streets are lined with thousands of enthusiastic spectators, and the “Shangma” culture emphasizes a “runner-first” philosophy that is evident in everything from the volunteer support to the high-quality finisher medals. Joining the ranks of the world’s most prestigious marathons, it offers a truly global racing experience in one of the most dynamic cities on the planet.
Ready to experience the heart of Shanghai on foot? Visit the official website to view entry requirements, lottery dates, and registration details: Shanghai Marathon Official Website.
At a Glance
- Location: Shanghai, Shanghai — China
- Next Date: 2026-12-06
- Distances: [‘Marathon’, ‘Wheelchair Marathon’]
- Start Time: 07:00
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.shang-ma.com/