Dublin City Council has been confirmed as the title sponsor of the Dublin City Half Marathon, ahead of the 2026 edition of the race which will take place on Sunday, 3 May, over the May Bank Holiday weekend.
The event is moving from last year’s March slot to early May, a change designed to better balance the needs of runners with those of residents, businesses and the wider city community.
Organisers believe the revised date will also enhance the overall race-day experience, benefiting both participants and spectators.
Officially branded as the Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon, the race is organised by Dublin Marathon Group and will start at 8.30am on O’Connell Street, placing the event at the very heart of the capital. The course will guide runners through the north side of the city before returning to finish in the city centre, showcasing Dublin’s neighbourhoods and public spaces.
Dublin City Council previously served as official event partner for the inaugural running of the race in 2025. Its elevation to title sponsor reflects an ongoing commitment to promoting active lifestyles, public health initiatives and inclusive city-centre events that encourage participation and engagement across communities.
The half marathon is open to runners of all abilities, from first-time participants to experienced athletes. Organisers say the core mission remains unchanged: to create a vibrant, accessible and celebratory racing experience that highlights both the runners and the city itself. The 2026 event will again be delivered under the theme “Run Together – Thrive Together.”
Speaking at the announcement, Lord Mayor of Dublin Councillor Ray McAdam said the event strongly aligns with his mayoral priorities. “Dublin City Council is delighted to be the title sponsor of the Dublin City Half Marathon,” he said.
“As Lord Mayor, my theme is Celebrating Dublin, and this event is a perfect expression of my three priorities: an Active City, a Living City, and an Engaged City, with thousands of people running our streets, showcasing our neighbourhoods, and communities turning out in force to support them.”
Seán O’Riain, CEO of Dublin Marathon Group, said the partnership with the local authority has been central to the event’s development. “Our partnership with Dublin City Council has been pivotal to the success of our events over many years, and they are a natural fit as title sponsor of the Dublin City Half Marathon,” he said.
“With the race starting on O’Connell Street and finishing in the heart of the city, this event truly reflects the spirit of Dublin and its communities.”
In 2026, a total of 12,500 runners are expected to take part. Entry will again operate through a public ballot, introduced following runner feedback, with additional places allocated to charity partners, elite athletes, international tour operators and community programmes. Runners unsuccessful in the ballot will still have opportunities to participate through a transfer window running from 2–8 April, while charity entries will be available via realbuzz.
Image Credit: Dublin Marathon, Seb Daly, Sportsfile
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