Chicago Marathon 2026: Defending Champions Return, New Features Await — image accompanying Marathon Handbook's report. Image accompanying Marathon Handbook’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
The 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, starts October 11. Defending champion Jacob Kiplimo aims for another win. Brigid Kosgei returns after setting a world record in 2019.
Over 55,000 runners from 100 countries expected. New for 2026: four Culligan water refill stations. Gear check and post-race party close at 4 p.m. NBC 5 Chicago and Telemundo Chicago broadcast live. Read more culture coverage.
The free Bank of America Chicago Marathon app offers live tracking. The route loops through 29 neighborhoods, crossing the Chicago River six times. Aid stations provide water, Gatorade, and snacks. Weather typically cools from 40s to 60s°F. Related: Chicago Marathon Course Features Flat Terrain and Multiple River Crossings.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
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What should runners know about Chicago Marathon 2026: Defending Champions Return, New Features Await?
The 48th Chicago Marathon features returning champions and new water refill stations. The 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, starts October 11. Defending champion Jacob Kiplimo aims for another win. Brigid Kosgei returns after setting a world record in 2019.
When did Runner World publish this culture brief?
Runner World published this brief on October 6, 2026. The underlying Marathon Handbook report was dated October 5, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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