The Rome Marathon 2026—officially known as Run Rome the Marathon—will celebrate its 31st edition on Sunday, 22 March 2026 at 8:30 AM. With a cap of 30,000 bibs and a course that winds past some of the world’s most famous monuments, the 42.195 km event has become one of Europe’s must-run races. This guide covers every detail: how to register, what’s new in 2026, the route, runner services, training tips, and suggestions for enjoying the Eternal City.
History and significance of the Rome Marathon
Although its roots date back to 1982, the Rome Marathon grew into a flagship European race in the 2000s. It now carries the World Athletics Gold Label and draws athletes from across the globe by combining sport with history. The 2025 edition welcomed more than 25,000 runners, and organisers expect to break records in 2026. Running in Rome means tracing a path through an open-air museum: every kilometre is steeped in art, architecture, and culture, turning the race into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What’s new and important for 2026
- Date and time: The race takes place on 22 March 2026 at 8:30 AM.
- Bib limit: There will be 30,000 entries available, and registration may close once all spots are sold.
- Tiered fees: Registration fees vary depending on when you sign up: €89 until 31 July 2025; €99 from 1 August to 31 October 2025; €119 from 1 November to 15 December 2025; and €129 from 16 December 2025 to 16 March 2026.
- Deferral option: If you can’t attend, you may defer your entry to the 2027 edition for €30 before 31 December 2025.
- Cut-off time: Participants have 6 hours 30 minutes to finish the race.
- Categories: The marathon is open to athletes aged 20 and above in various national and international categories.
These features, combined with smooth organisation and a festive atmosphere, mean that the 2026 edition is set to be a standout. If you want to secure a bib, it’s wise to register early.
Registration and runner services
Registration is carried out exclusively online via the official marathon website. Keep in mind that the price increases as race day approaches and that entries are non-refundable, although you can defer your bib to 2027 by paying a small fee. Once your registration is confirmed, you’ll receive an email with your bib number and instructions for collecting your race kit.
Race packs are collected at the Expo Village, where you can also attend talks, browse running gear, and enjoy marathon-related activities. The organisers will announce the exact location and opening hours of the expo closer to race week. During the race, you’ll have aid stations every 5 km, medical assistance, a bag-drop area, showers, and pacers for various finish times. Timing is provided via a disposable chip.
If your plans change and you cannot run, remember that your entry can be deferred only once and must be arranged before 31 December 2025. Unauthorised bib exchanges are not permitted.
Course: running through history
The Rome Marathon is famous for its spectacular course. Both the start and finish lines are located by the Colosseum on Via dei Fori Imperiali. From there, runners follow a loop that passes many of Rome’s most iconic sights:
- Piazza Venezia and the Vittoriano: Soon after the start, you’ll cross this imposing square and admire the Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II.
- Circus Maximus and the Baths of Caracalla: The route skirts the ancient chariot track and the ruins of the imperial baths.
- Lungotevere and Castel Sant’Angelo: You’ll run along the Tiber River, crossing several bridges and enjoying views of the castle.
- Viale della Conciliazione to St Peter’s: A memorable stretch leading to St Peter’s Square.
- Piazza del Popolo, Spanish Steps, and Piazza Navona: The course winds through the heart of Rome, including Via del Corso and the famous steps at Piazza di Spagna.
- Trastevere and Tiber Island: You’ll cross the river into the city’s bohemian quarter, with cobbled streets and lively cafés.
The course is mostly flat, although some stretches feature cobblestones and gentle hills. You’ll cross the Tiber multiple times, adding variety to the profile. In the final kilometres, you’ll return toward the Colosseum, soaking up the cheers from spectators on every corner. You really do run through history.
Elite athletes and competitive atmosphere
The 2025 race crowned Kenyans Robert Ngeno and Betty Chepkwony, who clocked 2:07:35 and 2:23:02 respectively. Rome regularly attracts a mix of African and European athletes chasing fast times and an unrivalled backdrop. For 2026, organisers expect strong elite fields alongside thousands of recreational runners. If you’re looking for an international marathon with room to run, Rome offers an excellent balance of performance and experience.
Training tips for a successful marathon
Preparing for a marathon requires planning, consistency, and patience. Here are some key recommendations drawn from experienced coaches and proven training plans:
- Get a health check: Before starting, consult a professional to assess your fitness and determine training paces.
- Follow a structured plan: Combine easy runs with long runs, speed work (intervals and hills), and strength training. Avoid scheduling two hard sessions back-to-back and respect recovery days.
- Build your aerobic base: Conversational-pace runs improve endurance and prepare you for harder workouts.
- Include long runs and quality sessions: Long runs accustom your body to running for hours, while intervals improve running economy. Tempo and threshold sessions help you sustain marathon pace.
- Focus on nutrition and hydration: Increase carbohydrate intake during key weeks and maintain a balanced diet rich in protein for recovery. Practise your fuelling strategy during long runs so nothing is new on race day.
- Respect rest and recovery: Recovery runs and rest days are essential for adaptation. Overtraining is a common cause of injury.
- Choose the right plan length: 12-week, 16-week, and 20-week programmes exist to suit different experience levels. Pick the one that fits your background and schedule.
- Use the SnapRace app: SnapRace helps you plan sessions, track progress, and stay motivated. Its community connects you with other runners and helps you discover new routes for your training.
Beyond the race: enjoying Rome
Running the marathon is only part of the adventure. Take advantage of your trip to explore the Eternal City. Visit the Colosseum, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, tour St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Wander around Trastevere, taste authentic pizza al taglio, and enjoy an espresso on a sunny terrace. Rome offers endless cultural and culinary experiences for runners and their supporters.
If you’re passionate about marathons, you might also enjoy our guides to other major races. Check out our article on the Madrid Marathon 2026 or dive into our comprehensive coverage of the Seville Marathon 2026 for more inspiration.
Final thoughts
The Rome Marathon 2026 is more than a race—it’s a journey through time that blends sport, history, and culture. With a course that cuts through the heart of the city and a festive atmosphere cheering you on, the 2026 edition promises to be unforgettable. Secure your bib, begin your training, and get ready to discover the Eternal City in running shoes. See you at the finish line.