World Athletics has announced plans to introduce a dedicated World Marathon Championships starting in 2030, with Athens, Greece, being considered as the host for the inaugural event. This marks a significant shift for the marathon, which has traditionally been part of the broader World Athletics Championships.
Under the new structure, the marathon will remain integrated into the World Athletics Championships in 2027 and 2029 before transitioning to its own annual championship from 2030. The event will feature men and women competing in alternate years, creating a focused global platform for the iconic distance.
Lord Sebastian Coe, President of World Athletics, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating:
"We are delighted to be exploring options with Athens. This is an opportunity to create a dedicated global celebration of marathon running, held in a setting that honors its heritage while shaping a modern championship that reflects the scale and spirit of the global running community."
The annual Road Running Championships will continue as a separate event, ensuring marathon runners have multiple premier competitions. The last marathon within the biennial World Athletics Championships could be held in London if the city's bid to host the 2027 event is successful.
This move aims to elevate the marathon's profile, celebrating its rich history and global appeal with a standalone championship that captures the essence of the sport.