Ho Chi Minh City International Marathon
The Lowdown
Vietnam's largest and most prestigious marathon, held annually in December and sponsored by Techcombank (Techcombank Ho Chi Minh City International Marathon). Now in its 9th edition, the race is certified by World Athletics and draws thousands of local and international runners through the vibrant streets of Saigon. The full marathon (42.195 km) starts at the entrance of Thao Cam Vien (Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden) at the junction of Le Duan and Nguyen Binh Khiem streets and finishes at the Empire City complex. The course passes iconic landmarks including Independence Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market area, City Theater, and crosses the Calmette and Thu Thiem bridges, showcasing both the historic character and modern skyline of Ho Chi Minh City. The route is largely flat and fast, making it a popular target for personal bests. Supporting distances include Half Marathon (21 km), 10 km, 5 km, and kids' runs (1.5 km and 3 km). Race weekend spans December 4–6, 2026, with the marathon and half marathon on December 6. Expo and bib pickup take place in the days prior. The event regularly sells out in advance.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Large field
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Excellent spectator turnout
Independence Palace (Reunification Palace)
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
Saigon City Theater (Opera House)
Thao Cam Vien
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden (start area)
Empire City complex (finish line)
Calmette Bridge
Thu Thiem Bridge
Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Ben Thanh Market area
Other distances available during the event weekend:
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
VN
Average rate for 3-star accommodations near the start line
Eligibility
- Marathon (42 km): minimum age 18 on race day
- Half Marathon (21 km): minimum age 16 on race day
- 10 km: minimum age 14 on race day
- 5 km: minimum age 10 on race day
- Kids runs: ages 5–14
Required Documents
- Photo ID or passport
- Proof of registration (QR code or confirmation email)
Entry Methods
- Online registration at marathonhcmc.com
- Group registration available for clubs and corporates
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Review current cancellation and transfer policy at marathonhcmc.com before registering; previous editions have had no-refund policies
World Athletics road race certified course
9th edition in 2026; event launched in 2017
Race regularly sells out — previous edition (7th) sold out entirely
Race weekend spans December 4–6, 2026; marathon gun time approximately 04:00 local time
Ho Chi Minh City in December: hot and humid tropical climate, avg temp ~28°C, high humidity; runners should prepare for heat
Finish line at Empire City, Binh Thanh District
Both individual and group (corporate/club) registrations available
Title sponsor: Techcombank (Vietnam Technological and Commercial Joint-stock Bank); sponsor name may change in future editions
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