Just now, the much-anticipated 2026 Shanghai Marathon'slottery results have finallybeen announced, did you get in? Excluding guaranteed entries, among more than 20,000 people, are you one of them? Or is one of your friends?
Whether you were selected or not, please read on.
First, congratulations to the runners who were successfully drawn — well done securing those precious entry spots. If you didn’t get drawn this time, don’t be discouraged; there are still plenty of backup options to consider.
If you’re disappointed about not getting drawn, don’t lose heart — there are still routes that can get you onto the Shanghai Marathon course:
1. Keep an eye out for supplemental lottery opportunities
If a selected entrant fails to complete payment within the specified time, the organizing committee will hold a secondary draw among unselected applicants to fill the vacant spots.
2. Registering for the Health Run
The distance may be a bit short, but at least it's finally happening!For runners who weren't drawn, signing up for the Health Run is a worthwhile option.
However, registration for the Health Run doesn't open until July(the exact date will be announced by the organizers), so everyone should keep an eye on the timing.
Note: This year it's possible to take part in the Health Run first and then the full marathon, so the Health Run's lottery acceptance rate is expected to be very low.
3. Official race sponsors' exclusiveentry spots
Outside the lottery, there's always been a 'shortcut' to entry: sponsorslots.
This year's Shanghai Marathon has 9 sponsors and 8 event partners, so it's time to get moving~
Runners canfollow the Shanghai Marathon's official sponsors (such as Nike, Shanghai Pudong Development Bank, China UnionPay, GoTone, etc.) and take part in their campaigns to obtain additional race entries, often through purchasing products, joining online interactions, redeeming points, or prize draws.
4. Why not switch to a different marathon?
If you're completely shut out of the 2026 Shanghai Marathon,in thesecond half of the year, what high-quality races are available?
October 18 Beijing Marathon (registration not yet open),'the national marathon' needs no introduction. From Tiananmen to the Bird's Nest, it's a must-do on every runner's checklist.
November 1 Hangzhou Marathon (registration underway, closes July 15), Hangzhou Marathon is also aiming for a Platinum Label, so it may become harder to get entry in the future — runners should cherish the opportunity while they can. 2026 Hangzhou Marathon registration opens tomorrow at 10 AM — what changes are there this year?
December 6Shenzhen Marathon(registration not yet open),starts on the same day as the Shanghai Marathon,if you don't get a slot in the Shanghai Marathon, consider turning your attention to this young, vibrant city.
December 20Guangzhou Marathon(registration not yet open),The year-end finale marathon of South China and one of the “hot” races.
After the results were announced, some were happy and some were sad.If you were drawn,congratulations,December 6, see you at Jinniu Square on the Bund (remember to complete payment by July 20).
If you didn’t get a spot, don’t be discouraged — there are still chances to try again. There are many races in the second half of the year to choose from; there’s bound to be one that suits you.
In any case, don’t lose heart — there’s another chance at the Shanghai Marathon next year. It seems to get harder every year, which means even more runners will miss out; does that make you feel any better?
Text:MP / Editor:MP
