Nairobi’s streets belong to the runners this Sunday, 25 October, as the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon returns as one of the biggest dates on the Kenyan athletics calendar.
Why this race matters
The Nairobi Marathon carries a World Athletics road race label, which means it meets international standards for course measurement, timing and elite field quality. For Kenyan runners, it is a chance to post fast times and earn prize money at home. For thousands of recreational runners, it is the highlight of the year, whether they are chasing a personal best or simply soaking up the atmosphere.
A busy week for Kenyan road running
The marathon caps a busy few days for the sport. The Mau Conservation Marathon takes place in Nakuru on Friday, 23 October, and the success of Amos Kipruto in Chicago earlier this month has given the whole running community a lift heading into the weekend.
Race day essentials
- Date: Sunday 25 October 2026
- Event: Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon
- Status: World Athletics label road race
- Runners: collect your bib early and check the official race guide for start times and road closures
Tips for runners
Nairobi sits at roughly 1,700 metres above sea level, so visiting runners should respect the altitude and start conservatively. Hydrate well in the days before the race, eat a familiar breakfast and avoid trying new shoes or kit on race day. If you are running your first full or half marathon, aim to finish strong rather than chase a time in the first few kilometres.
Tips for spectators
Expect road closures across parts of the city early on Sunday morning, so plan your route in advance and use public transport where you can. The best atmosphere is usually near the start and finish zones, but cheering anywhere along the course gives runners a massive boost in the closing stages.
Not to be confused with
This is a different event from the Nairobi City Marathon, which took place on 7 June and attracted more than 17,000 entries. Kenya’s capital now hosts two major road races every year, a sign of just how much the running boom continues to grow.
Follow 360 Sports Africa on Sunday for results, winning times and the best moments from the course.
