Birmingham is set to host the grand finale of the European Athletics Championships this weekend, as the city centre prepares for the marathon and race walk events. The full routes for both competitions, taking place on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 August, have been released, giving spectators the opportunity to witness Europe’s elite athletes compete on the city’s streets.
This marks the first time the Championships have been held in the UK, bringing together more than 1,600 athletes from 48 countries. The road racing events will be free for spectators, with the race walk scheduled for Saturday and the marathon on Sunday, both in the city centre.
Race Walk Route and Viewing Points
The race walk events will begin on Colmore Row and conclude in Victoria Square, using a one-kilometre city-centre loop. Spectators can watch from Waterloo Street, Temple Row West, and Colmore Row, with athletes passing frequently throughout the event. The route will be fully barriered, with managed crossing points for pedestrians.
Marathon Route and Recommended Viewing Spots
The men’s and women’s marathons on Sunday will both start and finish in Victoria Square. The women’s race begins at 7:30am, followed by the men’s at 8:10am. Athletes will complete eight laps of a five-kilometre city-centre circuit.
Recommended viewing locations include Colmore Row and Church Street for the opening and closing stages, as well as Holliday Street, Granville Street, Sheepcote Street, Sand Pits, Ludgate Hill, Charlotte Street, and Warstone Lane.
Birmingham athlete Ellis Cross will compete in the men’s marathon as part of the Novuna GB & NI Team, giving local fans a home-city athlete to support.
Cherry Alexander, Championship Director for Birmingham 2026, said: “With the elite race walks and marathon taking place on Birmingham's streets, people can get closer than ever to the action and watch some of the world's best athletes compete in iconic city-centre locations.” She added, “The enthusiasm and support of local communities, visitors and athletics fans from across Europe will create an incredible atmosphere and help make Birmingham 2026 a truly memorable Championships.”
