Wizz Air Skopje Marathon 2026 — record 15,050 runners from 63 countries

All preparations are complete for the 22nd edition of the Wizz Air Skopje Marathon, which takes place on Sunday, October 4, 2026. Organisers announced at a press conference held on October 1, 2026 at Europe House that this year’s event will bring a record 15,050 registered runners from 63 countries to the Macedonian capital.

The field will include elite international competitors alongside mass-participation runners and recreational entrants. After local athletes, the largest contingents come from Serbia, Germany, Great Britain and Turkey.

Speaking about the marathon’s importance for the city, Zoran Stojanović, president of the Sports Union of Skopje, said: "The Wizz Air Skopje Marathon is a sporting tradition that with every new edition unites Skopje. This year we have a record number of participants and a large number of runners from abroad, which confirms that the marathon has its place on the international sporting map. Our goal is for all participants to have excellent conditions for the race and to take away a pleasant experience from Skopje."

Races, volunteers and local support

The programme again features four races: the marathon (42.195 kilometres), the half marathon (21 kilometres), a 5-kilometre run and the EU for Sport relay. Organisers highlighted the logistical challenge of a record field but stressed it is also a strong motivator for the team.

Minister of Sport Borko Ristovski added: "The marathon is an example of how sport can unite citizens and send a positive message to the whole society. The Ministry of Sport continues to support events that promote sport and active civic participation." The EU Delegation’s deputy head in North Macedonia, Ben Nupnau, also expressed pride that the mission supports the event: "It is a great honour and pleasure for us to support this major sporting event again this year. Sport connects people regardless of their origin and borders, and the Wizz Air Skopje Marathon is a fine example of how one event can connect Skopje, the country and the European sporting community."

City mayor Orce Gjorgievski confirmed municipal backing and urged residents to attend and cheer the runners: "The City of Skopje gives its full support to the marathon, with the full availability of public enterprises and services involved in the organisation so that the event runs safely and in the best order. I call on Skopje citizens to come out, cheer the runners and be part of the energy that makes the marathon special." Organisers noted that around 500 volunteers will be deployed along the courses to assist on race day.

Photo: press material from the event