The 2 × 21 km relay is the new discipline in the Wizz Air Sofia Marathon 2026 program, giving two participants the opportunity to share the classic marathon. The format combines the challenge of long-distance running with team spirit, making participation more accessible, motivating, and shared.

Wizz Air Sofia Marathon 2026 introduces a new discipline – a 2 × 21 km relay, allowing participants to split the classic marathon and complete it together as a team.

The format has been created in response to growing interest from runners in more flexible and social ways to participate. The relay combines the challenge of long-distance running with a sense of teamwork, making the marathon accessible to a wider audience.

The race will take place on October 11, 2026 (Sunday), alongside the classic marathon (42.195 km) and the Address Run – 21 km, using the same certified course as the individual disciplines.

The quota is limited to 300 teams.

What is the relay

The relay is a team discipline in which two participants share the distance – each runs 21 km to complete the full marathon. It is a format that combines individual effort with a shared goal.

Teams can consist of two men, two women, or mixed pairs. The exchange between runners takes place in a designated zone along the course, where the second runner continues the second half of the distance.

A brief history

Relay running has a long tradition, originating from practices of delivering messages over long distances. In modern athletics, relays became established in the late 19th century and were later included in the program of the Olympic Games.

Today, the format has expanded beyond the stadium. In mass participation races, it allows more people to take part in marathons by sharing both the distance and the experience.

Rules and organization

The relay format is simple and easy to follow. Both participants must be registered in advance as a team, and each runs their half of the course (a half marathon). The start is shared with the other distances, and the result is recorded as a combined team time.

The exchange takes place in a designated zone, which requires good prior planning – both in terms of logistics and coordination between the two runners.

How to choose a partner

Choosing the right partner is essential, as the relay is a shared effort. It is best to select someone with a similar level of preparation and pace to ensure a balanced and enjoyable experience.

Good communication is also key. It is important to agree in advance on strategy, pacing, and roles. Some teams prefer a strong start, others rely on a faster finish, but the most important thing is that both runners feel confident in the plan.

What to know in advance

Preparing for a relay involves not only physical readiness but also organization. You need to decide who will run first and who will run second, as well as plan how to reach the exchange zone.

Clear coordination on race day helps avoid unnecessary stress and allows both participants to focus on running.

Why take part in a relay

The relay makes the marathon more accessible by dividing the distance into two equal parts. This allows more people to participate without having to prepare for a full marathon.

At the same time, it adds a new dimension to the experience – shared effort, support, and motivation. For many runners, it is a first step toward the classic marathon, but also a powerful experience on its own.

The 2 × 21 km relay changes the way the marathon is experienced – from an individual challenge to a shared journey.

Photo: KrisoK Photography