Birmingham city centre is shut down today, Sunday, August 16, for the final of the European Athletics Championships marathon. Both the men's and women's races start and finish in Victoria Square, with athletes completing eight laps of a five-kilometre city-centre circuit.
First UK Hosting Brings 1,600 Athletes
This is the first time the Championships have been hosted in the UK, bringing together more than 1,600 athletes from 48 countries. The women's marathon began at 7.30am, followed by the men's race at 8.10am.
Recommended viewing locations include Colmore Row and Church Street (for the opening and closing stages of the race), Holliday Street, Granville Street, Sheepcote Street, Sand Pits, Ludgate Hill, Charlotte Street, and Warstone Lane.
Local Athlete Ellis Cross in Men's Race
As part of the Novuna GB & NI Team line-up, Birmingham athlete Ellis Cross will compete in the men's marathon, 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.”
Community Support Expected to Create Atmosphere
Alexander 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.”
This is a live blog and will be updated as the races progress.
