RIYADH — Riyadh is already on the move. With the marathon festival underway and all races sold out, the capital is preparing for Saturday’s flagship race as the fifth Riyadh International Marathon reaches its peak.The Saudi Sports for All Federation is hosting the event from Jan. 28 to 31, expanding it for the first time into a four-day Riyadh Marathon Festival that blends elite competition with public celebrations of sport, health and community. **media[2654835]** Organized by the Saudi Sports for All Federation and supported by the Ministry of Sport and the Saudi Athletics Federation, the 2026 edition retains its World Athletics Elite Road Race status, underlining the marathon’s growing international profile.Speaking exclusively to Saudi Gazette, Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal, president of the federation, said the event reflects a broader national mission to promote healthier lifestyles across the Kingdom.“SFA’s mission is to develop and strengthen the community infrastructure, associations, and resources that encourage and support greater physical activity across the Kingdom,” he said.Prince Khaled credited Saudi leadership for the marathon’s rapid growth over the past five years.“There is no leadership like Saudi leadership; the unwavering support of the King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the transformation of society to a health and wellness nation through activity and sport has made the marathon possible today, and over the past four years,” he said. **media[2654832]** “You have to see me when I’m abroad, I’m always encouraging people to Google the Riyadh Marathon and watch the videos and images online. This is the real Saudi. This is how we show our flag to the world. Come and see what our leadership has made possible: five years of running and walking Saudi spirit, in the rain, in the cold, in the sun, and through the streets of Riyadh.”The prince also highlighted the visible role of Minister of Sport Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki AlFaisal, noting that sustained leadership engagement has helped elevate the event year after year.“If you follow sports at all, you have seen our minister on the ground, active and engaged. Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Sport has helped bring the Riyadh Marathon to a bigger and better place each year, and this type of strong engagement encourages more people across the Kingdom to take part in nationwide wellness,” he said.This year’s edition introduces the Riyadh Marathon Festival, transforming the marathon into a four-day public celebration that culminates with race day, bringing together runners from across Saudi Arabia and abroad. **media[2654834]** The marathon features four race categories designed to suit all ages and fitness levels: the 42-kilometer full marathon, the 21-kilometer half marathon for participants aged 18 and above, the 10-kilometer run for those aged 17 and above, and the 5-kilometer fun run for families and beginners.All race categories are sold out, reflecting growing public demand and participation. The Riyadh Marathon Festival is open to the public from Jan. 28 to 30 at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, with free entry.The event is delivered in partnership with a broad public-sector coalition that includes the Ministry of Sport, the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, the National Events Center, Riyadh Municipality, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh Metro, the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, and the Saudi Tourism Authority.It is also supported by a wide network of local and international brands across sports, health, lifestyle and entertainment, reinforcing the marathon’s cultural, community and wellness dimensions as it heads into race day.
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