Challenge Almere-Amsterdam will celebrate its 45th anniversary in 2026, while the city of Almere itself marks its 50th birthday. Plenty of reasons to celebrate – and Challenge Almere-Amsterdam is doing so in style with the introduction of a brand-new Challenge Almere-Amsterdam Marathon.
The inaugural marathon will take place on Saturday, 12 September 2026, on the same day as the Long Distance and Middle Distance Triathlon. The race will start at 5:00 PM and is open to a maximum of 1,000 runners. Participants will run largely after sunset and cross the finish line in the evening, creating a truly unique marathon experience.
After a short opening section of approximately two kilometres, runners will complete four laps around the Weerwater, following the iconic Challenge Almere-Amsterdam Triathlon run course. This means marathon runners will share the course with triathletes who are still competing at that point.
“As a marathon participant, you will be right in the heart of the festivities along our course, including multiple passages through our stadium at the Esplanade,” says Event Director Jefry Visser. “This is something truly unique in the marathon world: you will be carried forward by tens of thousands of spectators, music and stadium announcers.”
In addition to the exceptional atmosphere, marathon runners will benefit from the extensive on-course aid stations already in place for the triathlon. “On each lap of approximately ten kilometres – excluding the opening section – runners will pass no fewer than six aid stations,” Visser explains. “These will offer water, Powerbar products, sports drink, cola, crackers and fruit. After finishing, athletes can relax in our dedicated athlete recovery area at the theatre (Schouwburg): warm and dry, with an athlete buffet featuring hot and cold meals, as well as shower and changing facilities.”
The start of the Challenge Almere-Amsterdam Marathon will be located at the Forum, adjacent to the Esplanade and the main event area, right in the heart of Almere’s city centre. The race will begin in five closely spaced wave starts.
Registration is now open via our registration form (click here). More info: https://challenge-almere.com/marathon/.
Those who register before 1 March will benefit from the lowest entry fee, after which prices will increase in stages.
