Running News Daily

The Half Marathon Lottery is Open for World Athletics Road Running Championships Copenhagen 2026

Runners from around the world now have the opportunity to secure a spot in the half marathon at the World Athletics Road Running Championships Copenhagen 2026. The lottery, open until March 20 at 11:59 PM CET, will determine which lucky participants will line up alongside the world’s best on September 20, 2026.

A total of 65,000 runners will take part in the championships, spread across three race distances:

• Half marathon: 35,000 participants

• 5K: 20,000 participants

• One mile: 10,000 participants

The half marathon will give participants the rare opportunity to race on the same course as the elite competitors, following a scenic and festive route through Copenhagen.

For the first time in Denmark, race entries will be allocated through a lottery system, similar to major international marathons like London and Berlin.

The decision to implement a lottery follows overwhelming demand for the Copenhagen Half Marathon 2025, which sold out in just 2.5 hours. Many runners were left waiting in the queue without securing an entry, leading organizers to rethink the process.

“The lottery ensures a fair and equal chance for everyone,” said Dorte Vibjerg, CEO of Sparta Athletics & Running. “Interested runners now have plenty of time to sign up whenever it suits them, as the chances of being selected are the same regardless of when you enter during the lottery period, March 6-20.”

A Scenic and Historic Course

Copenhagen, Denmark’s vibrant capital, is a city rich in history, culture, and architectural beauty. The half marathon course will take runners through the heart of the city, passing iconic landmarks such as Tivoli Gardens, the colorful Nyhavn waterfront, the Royal Palace, and the famous Little Mermaid statue.

The route is known for being flat and fast, offering ideal conditions for runners aiming to set a personal best. With thousands of spectators lining the streets, the race promises an unforgettable atmosphere that will push runners to their best performances.

With the introduction of the lottery system, organizers aim to create a fairer and more inclusive registration process, ensuring that all runners have an equal opportunity to be part of this world-class event.