One of the world's greatest athletic events is approaching. Chicago Marathon 2026 will take place on Sunday, October 11th, uniting thousands of amateur runners and some of the most popular names of long distance racing.
According to Bank of America organisers Chicago Marathon, the 48th edition will start and end at Grant Park, while participants will travel 42.195km through 29 American neighbourhoods.
More than 55 thousand participants are expected to be on the starting line, turning Chicago into the spotlight of international athletics.
But this year's race has a question that is particularly attracting fans' interest: can a historical result again be produced?
According to Runner's World, Jacob Kiplimo of Uganda returns to defend the title won in 2025 when he finished the marathon by 2 hours, 2 minutes and 23 seconds.
Kiplimo comes to Chicago after another extraordinary performance at London Marathon 2026, where he recorded 2:28, one of the fastest results ever achieved in this discipline.
However, competition is expected to be strong. Among his rivals are Kenyans Amos Kipruto and Alex Massai, as well as Berlin Marathon winner 2024, Milkesa Mengesha.
The women's race also promises a high-level confrontation.
Ethiopian Hawi Feysa, last year's winner, will try to defend the title in front of highly experienced international athletes.
According to Marathon Handbook, Kenyans Brigid Kosgei, two-time winner in Chicago, and Sharon Lonedi, winner of the Boston Marathon.
Chicago Pista is considered one of the fastest in the world because of its largely flat profile.
Organisers make it known that this marathon has been the scene of seven world records, strengthening its reputation as an important destination for athletes aimed at historic results.
The professional men and women race will begin at 7:30 local Chicago time, corresponding to 2:30 in Central Europe.
For American viewers, broadcasting will be available through local NBC channels and relevant broadcast platforms. For international audiences, TV partners include Eurosport and other regional broadcasters.
Organisers have also confirmed that Chicago Marathon's official application will offer to pursue real-time runners, rankings and results during the event's development.
In addition to sporting importance, the marathon also has great economic and tourist impact.
According to data published by organisers, the event generates more than $756m in annual economic impact on Chicago, drawing visitors, athletes and spectators from different parts of the world.
The streets of the city are expected to be filled with fans who will support participants along the entire route.
As Kiplimo and his rivals prepare for another duel, Chicago Marathon 2026 has all the conditions to offer one of the most interesting competitions of the season.
If there is a new record, it will be learned on Sunday, when the world's best athletes face one of the most famous marathon tracks.
