Marathon Guide

Shanghai Marathon

Shanghai Marathon pairs a vast lottery field with a fast city course, signature Bund landmarks, cool early-winter weather, and Platinum Label depth.

Next raceSunday, December 6, 2026
Distance categoryMarathon
LocationShanghai, China
Boston qualifierNo

Every link above goes to the race, its timing provider, or an official registration partner. Last checked July 20, 2026.

Quick facts

  • World Athletics Platinum Label marathon with a deep international field.
  • Large lottery-based entry process rewards close attention to application dates.
  • Central Shanghai course features the Bund and other major city landmarks.
  • Cool early-December scheduling usually supports goal-time attempts.

About the Shanghai Marathon

Shanghai Marathon is one of China's highest-profile road races, combining a large lottery field with the elite depth of a World Athletics Platinum Label event. Demand is a defining part of the experience, so runners should treat the entry window as carefully as the training block.

Course

The route is a broad urban tour built for steady pacing, moving through central Shanghai and past signature city scenery before a stadium-area finish. It is generally fast, but the scale of the field makes early positioning and patient first kilometers important.

Race-day weather

Early December is often cool enough for strong racing, with chilly starts and milder conditions later in the morning. Humidity, haze, and wind can still change how the final third feels.

Past Shanghai Marathon dates and results

YearDateStatusResults
2026Sunday, December 6, 2026Upcoming
2025Sunday, November 30, 2025CompletedOpen results

Shanghai Marathon FAQ

When is the Shanghai Marathon?

The 2026 Shanghai Marathon is on Sunday, December 6, 2026.

How do I register for the Shanghai Marathon?

Registration for the 2026 Shanghai Marathon has not been posted yet.

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