The World Marathon Challenge® is set to commence on January 31, 2026, spanning 7 cities across the globe, starting from Ultima Base in Antarctica. Participants will experience a unique and exhilarating opportunity to run seven marathons in seven continents within a week, challenging not only their physical endurance but also their logistical prowess. On this date, weather conditions in Antarctica will be extremely cold, with temperatures potentially dropping below freezing, while the other locations will vary significantly, from the warm, temperate climate of Cape Town, Africa, to the tropical humidity of Miami, USA. Runners can anticipate a blend of breathtaking landscapes and diverse environments, with each marathon covering the full distance of 42.2 km (26.2 miles), all while managing the complexities of travel between locations.
What is the format of the World Marathon Challenge®?
→The challenge consists of 7 marathons, with each marathon requiring completion of the full distance of 42.2 km (26.2 miles).
→Competitors can participate individually or as part of a team that must include at least one male and one female among the top three scoring runners.
→Each participant's cumulative time across all marathons is ranked for individual competition, while team ranking is based on the fastest combined times of the top three team members.
What are the distances for each marathon?
→Marathon 1: 42.2 km (26.2 miles) in Ultima Base, Antarctica
→Marathon 2: 42.2 km (26.2 miles) in Cape Town, Africa
→Marathon 3: 42.2 km (26.2 miles) in Perth, Australia
→Marathon 4: 42.2 km (26.2 miles) in Dubai, Asia
→Marathon 5: 42.2 km (26.2 miles) in Madrid, Europe
→Marathon 6: 42.2 km (26.2 miles) in Fortaleza, South America
→Marathon 7: 42.2 km (26.2 miles) in Miami, North America
How much does registration cost?
→Registration fee for the World Marathon Challenge®: $49,500
What is included in the registration fee?
→Specialist jet flight from Cape Town to Ultima Base, Antarctica
→Professionally organized marathons at all 7 locations
→International charter flights between continents
→Contingency plans for Antarctic weather delays
→Meals on charter flights
→Aid, food, and drink stations at each marathon
→Medical support throughout the trip
→Shower facilities at each location (except Antarctica)
→Professional video footage and photos for personal use
→Medals, t-shirts, souvenirs, and merchandise
What is the schedule for the 2026 World Marathon Challenge®?
→January 28: Latest arrival in Cape Town, South Africa
→January 29: Race Director briefing
→January 30: Pre-departure briefings for Antarctica
→January 31: Marathon 1 in Ultima Base, Antarctica
→February 1: Marathon 2 in Cape Town, Africa
→February 2: Marathon 3 in Perth, Australia
→February 3: Marathon 4 in Dubai, Asia
→February 4: Marathon 5 in Madrid, Europe
→February 5: Marathon 6 in Fortaleza, South America
→February 6: Marathon 7 in Miami, North America
What weather conditions should participants anticipate?
