This year\u2019s edition has attracted participants from 31 countries, 490 cities, and 32 States and Union Territories of India, reinforcing its stature as a truly international event. Participants will compete across four race categories: Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The race will be flagged off from the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium by Olympic medallist boxer Vijender Singh and Olympian tennis star Rohan Bopanna, guiding runners through the heart of New Delhi\u2019s historic and vibrant streets. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
Certified as a National Marathon by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and recognised by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), and acknowledged by World Athletics, the marathon continues to strengthen its position on the global athletic calendar.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Indian Elite Marathon contingent \u2014 including Anish Thapa, Belliyappa, Man Singh, Gopi T, Dr. Karthik, Akshay Saini, Bhagirathi Bisht, Nirmaben Thakor Bharatjee, Ashwini Madan Jadhav, Disket Dolma, and Stanzin Dolkar \u2014 will showcase the nation\u2019s finest distance-running talent.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The marathon also serves as a qualifying race for the upcoming Asian Games, offering athletes a pathway to international excellence.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In a step toward greater inclusivity, the marathon will host approximately 20 vision-impaired athletes, reaffirming its commitment to creating an accessible and empowering sporting platform.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The event has also raised \u20b910 lakh, which has been contributed to the Athletics Federation of India in support of its Junior Development Programs, strengthening grassroots athletics in the country.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe Cognizant New Delhi Marathon is not just a race; it\u2019s a celebration of human spirit, perseverance, and unity. We are proud to witness such incredible global participation and to continue fostering an inclusive and inspiring event. Our goal is to create a platform where every runner \u2014 from elite athletes to first-timers \u2014 can push their limits and be part of something much larger than themselves,\u201d said Nagaraj Adiga, Race Director & CMD, NEB Sports.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe National Marathon serves as a premier platform for India\u2019s elite long-distance runners. With only the highest-performing athletes qualifying to represent the nation at events such as the Asian Games, competitions of this stature play a crucial role in identifying and preparing top talent. We sincerely appreciate the continued support towards the Junior Development Programs, which are instrumental in nurturing the next generation of champions,\u201d said Stanley Jones, Treasurer, Athletics Federation of India<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe Cognizant New Delhi Marathon is not just a race; it\u2019s a celebration of human spirit, perseverance, and unity. We are proud to witness such incredible global participation and to continue fostering an inclusive and inspiring event. Our goal is to create a platform where every runner \u2014 from elite athletes to first-timers \u2014 can push their limits and be part of something much larger than themselves,\u201d said Nagaraj Adiga, Race Director & CMD, NEB Sports.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"As we mark our third consecutive year of partnership with the Cognizant New Delhi Marathon, we are proud to support a platform that reflects the steady evolution of India\u2019s running culture. Guided by our Sound Mind, Sound Body philosophy, ASICS is committed to enabling runners at every level through innovation-led products, recovery support, and community engagement. By enabling access to the right tools, knowledge, and environments, we aim to help individuals build consistency, resilience, and long-term well-being,\" said Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India & South Asia.<\/p>\r\n\r\n