The Colombo Marathon 2026, organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and key local partners under the theme “A Step for Peace and Humanity”, officially kicked off today.
The international sporting event aims to establish Colombo as Sri Lanka’s premier international city marathon.
The official opening ceremony held at City of Dreams Sri Lanka on 4 August 2026 was attended by government officials, sponsors, partners and journalists, and the first marathon to be held under the theme “A Step for Peace and Humanity” was officially announced on 13 September 2026.
The event was graced by the presence of Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage, Deputy Minister of Sports Sugath Thilakaratne, Secretary to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports Aruna Bandara and Director General of the Department of Sports Development S. Achchuthan, among other distinguished guests.
The Colombo Marathon 2026, which aims to place Sri Lanka at the forefront of the global sports tourism map, aims to become an annual international sports platform that brings together international athletes, local runners and the community. At the same time, it also aims to introduce Colombo to the international community as a vibrant and attractive city suitable for world-class sporting experiences.
Inspired by the world’s leading city marathons, the event aims to create a lasting legacy for Sri Lanka by combining sporting excellence, tourism promotion and community engagement.
Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage said:
“The Colombo Marathon 2026 is an important milestone in our efforts to establish Sri Lanka as a stronger presence in the international sporting arena. This event will provide new opportunities for athletes and encourage the youth to actively participate in sports. It will also contribute to introducing Sri Lanka to the international community as a destination that can successfully organize world-class sporting events.”
The marathon, held under the theme ‘A Step for Peace and Humanity’, symbolizes unity, determination and collective progress.”
Kamal Munasinghe, Senior Vice President, Colombo Hotels, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and General Manager, Cinnamon Life, City of Dreams Sri Lanka, said:
“The Colombo Marathon 2026 provides an exciting opportunity to add a new dimension to the city’s festival and international events culture.”
“By creating a unique experience that connects sports, hospitality and the city of Colombo, the marathon will contribute to adding a new dimension to the city’s international events culture.
At City of Dreams Sri Lanka, we believe in the importance of supporting such programs that will further enhance the city’s appeal as a vibrant and attractive destination suitable for major global events, while providing unforgettable experiences for local and international participants.”
Dilip Mudadeniya, Senior Vice President and Head of Corporate Affairs, Global Alliances and Partnerships, John Keells Holdings PLC, said:
“World-class events are essential to establish Colombo as a strong international city brand. Such events can further strengthen the international image and soft power of the city and the country.
To achieve this goal, we need committed stakeholders who believe in programs that can provide long-term benefits to athletes, the tourism industry and Sri Lanka’s international image, and who work through strong partnerships between the public and private sectors.
Events like the Colombo Marathon create opportunities that are not limited to the day of the race. They contribute to creating a positive economic, social and international impact on the country.”
The official jersey of the LPL Jaffna Kings team, featuring the Colombo Marathon 2026 logo, was also unveiled at the event, further highlighting the growing collaboration between the various sporting communities in Sri Lanka.
Mr. Anil Mohan, Founder and CEO of IPG Group, the event rights holder of the Lanka Premier League (LPL), joined the Minister and the Deputy Minister to unveil the official jersey.
Afterwards, Jaffna Kings team captain Bhanuka Rajapaksa took to the stage wearing the team’s official jersey and presented the commemorative jersey to the Minister.
The Colombo Marathon, scheduled to be held on 13 September 2026, will consist of five categories for runners of all levels.
Full Marathon (42.195 km)
Half Marathon (42.195 km) 21.097)
10km Road Race
5km Fun Run
Mini Run for Kids
Over 4,000 local and international participants are expected to participate in this event. It will contribute to the growing sports tourism sector in Sri Lanka, and also aims to introduce the youth to sports and promote healthy lifestyles.
The necessary technical preparations are currently underway to organize the race in accordance with international marathon standards. Accordingly, an international road measurement expert, Sri Lanka
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