Marathon Handbook reports the first World Treadmill Championship opens qualifying on Friday. Runners can participate in a 5K on treadmills in gyms across 20 countries. The event, announced by World Athletics and Technogym, offers free entry with optional fees by individual centers.

Qualifying runs take place on Technogym treadmills, linked to a digital platform for certification and leaderboards. The top 25 percent in each category advance to a continental round, with the best 10 men and 10 women advancing to the final in Cesena, Italy, in March 2027. Read more racing coverage.

The overall and age-group champions share a $100,000 prize pool. The men’s and women’s overall winners' federations receive a wild card for the World Road Running Championships in Yangzhou, China, in March 2027. Related: Helsinki to host 2030 European Athletics Championships for fourth time.

This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.