Back on track: Jerusalem Marathon returns as symbol of ‘normalcy’
The event, scheduled for April 17, reflects Jerusalem's spirit and resilience, said the city's Mayor Moshe Lion. The 15th International Winner Jerusalem Marathon will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026, with approximately 40,000 participants expected to take part, after the event was postponed from its original March 27 date due to the security situation and Home Front Command guidelines.
THOUSANDS OF runners will pack the starting line of the Jerusalem Marathon next week, signaling a powerful return to routine in the capital. (photo credit: ILAN ROSENBERG/REUTERS) The event, scheduled for April 17, reflects Jerusalem's spirit and resilience, said the city's Mayor Moshe Lion. The 15th International Winner Jerusalem Marathon will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026, with approximately 40,000 participants expected to take part, after the event was postponed from its original March 27 date due to the security situation and Home Front Command guidelines.
With strong demand from runners, registration is set to close on Saturday night, April 11, marking the final opportunity to join this year’s race. For many participants, the marathon represents a return to routine sporting and leisure activities as life gradually moves back toward normal. The event, which includes a variety of race categories, reflects the resilience of Israeli society and the role of sport in times of crisis.
Marathon 'reflects spirit of the city' Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion emphasized the broader meaning of the race. “The international Jerusalem Winner Marathon is much more than a sporting event. It reflects the spirit of the city and its residents.
This event marks a return to normalcy and the resilience of Jerusalem, Israel’s capital," he said. "We are proud to bring the city back to life and to host the first major sporting event since the start of Operation ‘Roaring Lion. ’ The safety of participants remains our top priority, and due to the improvement of the security situation, we are pleased to welcome tens of thousands of runners from Israel and around the world.