In a move as inevitable as blisters on race day, adidas has re-upped its title partnership with the Manchester Marathon, cementing its role at the heart of one of Europe’s most popular long-distance races.
The global sportswear powerhouse isn’t just along for the jog. Since 2023, adidas has been more than a name on a banner—it’s been fuelling a movement.
Over 100,000 runners have hit the streets under the partnership, with this year’s race seeing a record-smashing 36,000 participants cheered on by 140,000 vociferous supporters lining Manchester’s roads on a blustery April Sunday.
And the numbers don’t stop at medals and finish-line hugs. The Manchester Marathon delivered a hefty £5 million in charitable donations this year, including gift aid, while also giving the local economy a rather welcome runner’s high.
But let’s not pretend it’s just about the spreadsheets and shoe sales. This partnership has been laced with real community impact—from adidas-led shakeout runs and expert panels at the “Adizero: For the Fast” pop-up at @Impossible Manchester, to hands-on support for first-timers and elite athletes alike. Training plans, official gear drops, and plenty of high-fives along the way have helped turn this into more than just a marathon—it’s become a full-blown Mancunian movement.
Now, with the 2026 adidas Manchester Marathon set for Sunday 19th April and over 40,000 runners already signed up (yes, it’s sold out), the focus turns to refining the experience—making it bigger, better, and bolder than ever before. For those still hoping to snag a bib, charity places are the only route in.
Andrew Smith, CEO of A.S.O. UK—the team behind the marathon—put it plainly: “We’re delighted to be continuing our partnership with adidas. It really has been a partnership – together we’ve delivered incredible experiences for all abilities of runner, built the event to unprecedented levels of demand and supported runners throughout their journey.
We’re excited to continue working with adidas to deliver this world-class event and create the best possible experience for our participants and spectators.”
Chris Walsh, VP Brand at adidas North Europe, echoed the sentiment with corporate elegance: “We are proud to renew our partnership with the Manchester Marathon, one of the UK’s most iconic running events.
This collaboration reflects our continued commitment to supporting athletes at every level and inspiring communities through sport. Together, we look forward to empowering even more runners to push their limits and celebrate the spirit of running in Manchester.”
And what a spirit it is. From seasoned club runners to brave-hearted charity fundraisers, the Manchester Marathon continues to prove it’s not just about speed—it’s about belonging. With adidas back at the helm, the future of this Northern powerhouse of a race looks anything but pedestrian.
Want in for 2026 or beyond? Register your interest at www.manchestermarathon.co.uk – but don’t hang about. If recent history tells us anything, this one fills up faster than a free hydration station on race day.