Back on Track: The 15th International Winner Jerusalem Marathon 2026 is Back

The Jerusalem Municipality announces that the 15th International Winner Jerusalem Marathon will take place as scheduled with approximately 40,000 participants on Friday, April 17, 2026; Mayor Moshe Lion: “This moment marks the return to normalcy and reflects the national resilience of Jerusalem, Israels capital.”

Originally scheduled for March 27, the marathon was postponed due to the security situation and the Home Front Command’s guidelines. The event is now set to take place on April 17th, with a strong demand from runners. Registration will close this Saturday night (April 11), making this the last opportunity to participate in this year’s marathon.

For many participants, the Jerusalem Winner Marathon represents a return to routine sporting and leisure activities. Approximately 40,000 runners are expected to take part in the different race categories.  As life gradually returns to normal, the marathon reflects the resilience of the Israeli society, the importance of sport in times of crisis, and the ability to restore a sense of normalcy even after a complex security situation.

Jerusalem Mayor, Moshe Lion, said today:

“The international Jerusalem Winner Marathon is much more than a sporting event, it reflects the spirit of the city and its residents. This event marks a return to normalcy and the resilience of Jerusalem, Israel’s capital. We are proud to bring the city back to life and to host the first major sporting event since the start of Operation ‘Roaring Lion.’ The safety of participants remains our top priority, and due to the improvement of the security situation, we are pleased to welcome tens of thousands of runners from Israel and around the world. I invite everyone to come, run, and be part of it.”

As part of the event preparations, race kits will be distributed from Tuesday to Thursday (April 14–16) at the Expo complex at Cinema City Jerusalem, between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM. The venue will also feature a dedicated expo with booths, sports gear, activities, and a festive atmosphere ahead of the race.

Meir Bardugo, CEO of the TOTO Winner Organization (Israel Sports Betting Board):

“Each year, the international Jerusalem Winner Marathon is a special and inspiring event for the TOTO and for everyone who takes part. This year, given the circumstances, it carries even greater meaning. The 15th Jerusalem Winner Marathon is a clear sign that the country is returning to normal life, and that sports and leisure activities are gradually resuming for the public, that has shown remarkable strength in recent weeks. I invite everyone to come to Jerusalem next week and be part of this great celebration of the Israeli spirit, one that never breaks and never gives up.”

The 15th International Winner Jerusalem Marathon, considered one of the most unique and scenic marathons in the world, runs through the city’s historic landscapes and attracts both professional and amateur runners each year. This year, it carries even greater significance, not only as a sporting event, but also as a reflection of a gradual return to everyday life, movement, and routine.

For more information and registration, please visit the official marathon website: https://jerusalem-marathon.com/en/home-page