Sofia Marathon
Sofia’s capital marathon mixes long boulevards, city-center landmarks, and a high-elevation urban setting where cool air and wind shape pacing.
Quick facts
- Experience Sofia's landmarks: Run past the National Art Gallery, Lavov Most, and Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
- Certified course: A 20 km loop certified by World Athletics, completed twice for the marathon.
- Central location: Start and finish at Alexander Battenberg Square, near the National Art Gallery.
- Bib pickup: Collect at Marathon Expo, opposite Ivan Vazov Theatre, no race-day collection.
About the Sofia Marathon
The Sofia Marathon offers runners a scenic 20 km loop through Bulgaria's capital, starting and finishing at Alexander Battenberg Square, and passing landmarks like the Lions' Bridge and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This well-organized event, complete with multiple race distances and ample on-course support, provides a rich cultural experience set against the lively backdrop of Sofia’s historic sites.
Course
The marathon uses central Sofia boulevards and repeated city sections near major civic landmarks. The profile is broadly runnable, but turns, gentle grades, and the capital’s elevation keep it from feeling uniformly flat.
Race-day weather
For the Sofia Marathon in October, expect morning temperatures around 43°F (6°C), rising to daytime highs near 63°F (17°C). Anticipate moderate humidity and occasional rain, with light breezes making for comfortable running conditions.
Past Sofia Marathon dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Sunday, October 11, 2026 | Upcoming | — |
| 2025 | Sunday, October 12, 2025 | Completed | Open results |
| 2024 | — | Completed | Open results |
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Sofia Marathon FAQ
When is the Sofia Marathon?
The 2026 Sofia Marathon is on Sunday, October 11, 2026.
Is Sofia Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. Sofia Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier. To use the result, you must run the certified full-marathon course within the qualifying window and meet the current standard for your age and gender. Meeting the standard lets you apply but does not guarantee entry, and net-downhill courses can receive a time adjustment under current B.A.A. rules. Review the Boston qualifying times and downhill-course rules, or browse upcoming Boston qualifier marathons.
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