The Sydney Marathon returns on Sunday 30 August 2026 and continues its rise as one of the most in-demand marathons in the world.

Now officially recognised as the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major, the event attracts tens of thousands of runners and spectators to Sydney each year. If you’re running, supporting someone, or simply planning to be in the city that weekend, here’s what you need to know.

Our 'wall of vests' at last years Sydney Marathon Expo.

When Is the Sydney Marathon 2026?

Event Date
Sunday 30 August 2026

Distance
42.195 kilometres

Start Time
To be confirmed for 2026

Course Cut Off
7 hours from the official closure of the start window

Robbie & @sotamaehara

Where Does the Race Start and Finish?

Start Line
Miller Street, North Sydney

Finish Line
Sydney Opera House Forecourt

The course begins on Sydney’s north side before crossing the Harbour Bridge and finishing at one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world.

What Is the Course Like?

Sydney is not a flat marathon.

Confirmed course statistics show:

Total elevation gain: 313 metres
Overall net elevation loss: 83 metres

Runners can expect rolling terrain, harbour views and sections through key city precincts. It rewards smart pacing rather than aggressive early splits.

2026 Fast Facts

How Do Entries Work?

The 2026 event operates via a ballot system.

Ballot charge date
29 October 2025

Entry Fees
AUD 280 for Australian and New Zealand residents
AUD 330 for International residents

What If You Miss Out on the Ballot?

There are official alternative pathways.

Charity Entry
Runners can secure a place by fundraising for an approved charity partner.

International Travel Packages
International runners may enter through approved travel partners that bundle race entry with accommodation and related services.

Where Is the Running Show?

The official Running Show is held at Sydney Showground in Sydney Olympic Park, a new venue this year for the Sydney Marathon expo.

Address
1 Showground Road
Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127

Opening Hours
Thursday 9:00am to 8:00pm
Friday 8:00am to 8:00pm
Saturday 8:00am to 4:00pm

All participants must collect their bib during these times.

How Do You Collect Your Bib?

Bib collection must be completed in person.

You must present government-issued photo identification that matches your registration details.

Important rules

• No bib transfers
• No selling or swapping entries
• No race morning bib collection

Failure to comply may result in disqualification.

How Are Start Groups Assigned?

Start groups are allocated based on the information provided at registration.

Once assigned, groups cannot be changed.

The 7 hour course limit is measured from the closure of the official start window, not from when an individual crosses the line.

Key Rules to Be Aware Of

• Entries cannot be sold, exchanged or transferred.
• Running under someone else’s bib is prohibited.
• Skipping any section of the course leads to disqualification.
• Participants must comply with event officials and safety instructions at all times.

Is Sydney a World Marathon Major?

Yes.

Sydney is officially recognised as the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major and has experienced record demand in recent years, including more than 33,000 finishers in 2025.

It gets tiring at a world marathon major.

What Should Spectators Know?

The course spans North Sydney, the Harbour Bridge precinct and the Sydney CBD before finishing at the Opera House.

Practical spectator advice:

• Arrive early
• Expect large crowds
• Use public transport
• Agree on a clear meeting point in advance
• Allow extra time to move between viewing locations

The finish line at the Opera House forecourt provides one of the most memorable viewing experiences in Australian sport.

Is There an Official Run Club?

Yes.

The Sydney Marathon Run Club operates in the lead up to race day, offering structured sessions and community training opportunities for registered participants.

Final Checklist

For Runners:

• Confirm entry status
• Book travel and accommodation early
• Attend the Running Show to collect your bib
• Review the elevation profile
• Allow extra time for race morning transport
• Understand the 7 hour cut off

For Spectators:

• Arrive early
• Plan transport carefully
• Choose viewing spots in advance
• Set a clear post race meeting location

The Sydney Marathon continues to grow as a global event. With a Harbour Bridge crossing and an Opera House finish, it offers a uniquely Australian marathon experience on the world stage.