Shanghai Marathon
Race snapshot
Race Day
43–57°F · Feels cool
Total elevation gain
Relatively flat course · Net elevation change +0 ft
Participants
World-class event
Crowd Rating
Legendary crowd support
The Lowdown
The Shanghai International Marathon is China's most prestigious road race and a World Athletics Platinum Label event, first held in 1996. The point-to-point course starts at the Bund Bull on the historic Bund waterfront and winds past the Huangpu River, Nanjing Road, the French Concession and other downtown landmarks before finishing near Shanghai Stadium. Entry is allocated by a public lottery (ballot) because demand far exceeds capacity; the 2026 edition marks the 30th running and expands the full marathon field to 30,000 runners. Wheelchair athletes start at 6:45 a.m. and the marathon goes off in waves from 7:00 a.m.
Questions about the Shanghai Marathon 2026
When is the Shanghai Marathon 2026?
Sunday, December 6, 2026.
Where is the Shanghai Marathon?
Shanghai, China.
What time does the Shanghai Marathon start?
The race starts at 7:00 AM, local time.
What is the Shanghai Marathon time limit?
6 hours 15 minutes.
How do I enter the Shanghai Marathon 2026?
Registration is closed. Jul 20, 2026: Payment Deadline. Jun 30, 2026: Lottery Results Announced. May 29, 2026: Lottery Registration Closes. Ways in: Public lottery (ballot) via official website www.shang-ma.com or the Shanghai Marathon app; International tour-operator guaranteed-entry packages.
How much does the Shanghai Marathon 2026 cost?
International Lottery Entry: CN¥1,150.
What is the Shanghai Marathon elevation gain?
30 m (98 ft) of total elevation gain. Net elevation change: +0 m (0 ft). Relatively flat course.
What is the Shanghai Marathon course like?
It passes The Bund, Bund Bull statue and Huangpu River.
What is the weather like at the Shanghai Marathon?
Race-day temperatures are usually 6–14 °C (43–57 °F). Feels cool.
How many runners does the Shanghai Marathon have?
30,000 participants. World-class event.
Where are the Shanghai Marathon results?
The official 2025 results are on the organizer's site. Official results
Is the Shanghai Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event.
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