World Athletics Plans Standalone Marathon Championships From 2030

Global governing body World Athletics has unveiled plans to introduce a standalone World Marathon Championships beginning in 2030, marking a significant shift in how one of the sport’s most iconic disciplines is showcased.

The historic city of Athens—widely regarded as the spiritual home of the marathon—is being considered as host for the inaugural edition, reflecting the event’s deep cultural and historical roots.

Under the proposal, the marathon will remain part of the World Athletics Championships in 2027 and 2029 before transitioning to its own dedicated annual competition. From 2030, men’s and women’s races will be staged in alternating years, allowing for greater focus and global engagement.

World Athletics President, Sebastian Coe, described the initiative as an opportunity to elevate the marathon’s global profile.

“This is an opportunity to create a dedicated global celebration of marathon running, held in a setting that honours its heritage while shaping a modern championship,” he said.

The move signals a broader effort to expand road running’s reach, with the existing Road Running Championships set to continue alongside the new event.

From 2031, the marathon will no longer feature in the biennial World Athletics Championships, ending a long-standing tradition. Should London succeed in its bid to host a future edition, it could stage one of the final championship marathons under the current format.