The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has launched Colombo Marathon 2026, a road race scheduled for September 13 that organisers say is intended to establish an annual international city marathon in the capital.
The launch was held on August 4 at City of Dreams Sri Lanka and attended by Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage, Deputy Minister Sugath Thilakarathne, Ministry Secretary Aruna Bandara and Director General of the Department of Sports Development S. Achchuthan. The race carries the theme “Steps for Peace and Humanity.”
Five categories, 4,000 expected
The event will run five categories: a full marathon over 42.195km, a half marathon over 21.097km, a 10km road race, a 5km fun run and a children’s mini run. Organisers expect more than 4,000 local and international participants.
Technical preparations are under way to meet international marathon standards, with an international measurement specialist due to certify the route alongside Sri Lankan technical experts. Race operations will be supported by about 100 certified officials from Sri Lanka Athletics.
“Colombo Marathon 2026 marks an important milestone in our efforts to strengthen Sri Lanka’s presence in international sport,” Gamage said. “This event will create opportunities for athletes, inspire youth participation and showcase Sri Lanka as a destination capable of hosting world-class sporting events.”
Backers and cricket tie-in
The marathon is organised with the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka and presented by Union Assurance, with Elephant House as powering partner and support from Nations Trust Bank and City of Dreams Sri Lanka. Nestomalt, DC Group, IPG Group and Rupavahini are also partners.
The launch included the unveiling of a Lanka Premier League Jaffna Kings jersey carrying the marathon logo. Anil Mohan, founder and chief executive of IPG Group and the LPL rights holder, joined the unveiling, and Jaffna Kings captain Bhanuka Rajapaksa presented the jersey to the minister.
Registration is open at colombomarathon.lk. Organisers describe the race as an inaugural event; Colombo already hosts several established road races, including the long-running LSR Colombo Marathon.
Sources: Colombo Gazette.
