A record-breaking 10,600+ participants have already registered for the 43rd edition of the Wizz Air Sofia Marathon, making this year’s event the largest in its history. Interest in the marathon continues to grow at an exceptional pace – the quotas for the classic 42K marathon and the Address Run 21K Half Marathon were filled 10 days before the end of regular registration, which officially closes on September 20.

In response to the continued high demand from runners, the organisers from the Association Sport in Leisure Time have managed to secure an additional 100 race entries for the marathon and another 500 for the half marathon. Registration for the Garmin Run 10K, FIB Mass Run 5K and HONOR Together Relay Run 2 × 21K will continue until the end of September or until the respective quotas are filled.

The current number of available spots can be checked on the official registration page:
sofiamarathon.bg/en/registration/

The 5K and 10K races will take place on Saturday, October 10, while participants in the marathon, half marathon and relay will take to the streets of Sofia on Sunday, October 11.

More Than 1,400 International Runners Turn the Marathon into an International Showcase for Sofia

The international presence at Wizz Air Sofia Marathon 2026 is also growing significantly. More than 1,400 runners from 65 countries have already registered for the event, reflecting the targeted international campaign and the decision to open registration at the beginning of the year.

Together with thousands of Bulgarian runners, they will take to the streets of Sofia, turning the sporting event into a unique live tour of the Bulgarian capital. The route passes a number of iconic locations and architectural and cultural landmarks that tell the story of the city and showcase its diverse cultural heritage.

The growing international interest in the marathon is an important step towards increasing Sofia’s visibility as a modern European destination for active tourism, combining two powerful reasons to travel – sport and experience. For many international participants, the race is not simply a reason to visit Bulgaria, but an opportunity to stay in Sofia, explore the city and experience it in an unusual way – quite literally, “on the move”.

Sofia Will Welcome Runners with Music and Energy Along the Course

For the third consecutive year, thousands of runners will be accompanied by a music programme across several stages positioned at key locations along the course. Located close to the refreshment stations, they will transform the route from a sporting challenge into a celebration for both participants and spectators.

At the refreshment stations, the organisers and marathon partners will provide food and drinks tailored to the high energy demands of runners across all race distances. Alongside the essential support for participants, the course will offer plenty of opportunities for spectators and Sofia residents to become part of the atmosphere of one of the city’s largest sporting events.

Wizz Air Sofia Marathon 2026 will once again bring together professional athletes, recreational runners, families, friends, corporate teams and people with different personal stories and goals. For some, the challenge will be their first 5K race; for others, setting a new personal best; and for others still, conquering the classic 42.195K marathon distance. What they will all share is the opportunity to experience one of the year’s biggest sporting events in the heart of Sofia.

Information about the updated course, the upcoming opening of the marathon’s traditional Expo Zone and the cultural programme will be announced very soon.