130th Boston Marathon Brings New Enhancements

The iconic race returns with expanded start waves and a star-studded field of runners

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:35pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring vibrant brushstrokes of neon yellow, orange, and pink, capturing the dynamic motion and energy of runners competing in a marathon event.The iconic Boston Marathon returns with a new format and a star-studded field, promising an electrifying display of athletic prowess and community spirit.Boston Today

The 130th Boston Marathon is set to take place on April 21, 2026, with over 30,000 participants from 137 countries and all 50 U.S. states. The race will feature six start waves, up from four in previous years, aimed at improving the athlete experience. Reigning champions will defend their titles, while American record holders and Olympians will compete as favorites. Spectators are encouraged to use public transportation due to extensive road closures and parking restrictions around the course.

Why it matters

The Boston Marathon is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated running events in the world, drawing elite athletes and passionate spectators from around the globe. The changes to the start wave structure and the star-studded field of runners will make this year's edition particularly exciting for the city of Boston and the running community.

The details

The 26.2-mile course will start in Hopkinton and wind through several Boston-area towns before ending in the city. New for 2026, the marathon will feature six start waves instead of four, aimed at improving the flow of athletes throughout the course. Over $1.5 million in prizes will be up for grabs across the open, wheelchair, and para athletics divisions.

  • The 130th Boston Marathon will take place on April 21, 2026.
  • Roads near the finish line will start to close at 7:15 a.m. on race day.
  • The first wave of runners will start at 10 a.m., with the final wave departing at 11:21 a.m.

The players

Sharon Lokedi

Reigning open division champion from Kenya who will defend her title.

John Korir

Reigning open division champion from Kenya who will also defend his title.

Marcel Hug

Reigning wheelchair division champion from Switzerland.

Emily Sisson

American record holder and 2024 Olympian who will compete as a U.S. favorite.

Conner Mantz

American record holder and 2024 Olympian who will also compete as a U.S. favorite.

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What they’re saying

“The city of Boston—and runners from across the world—are gearing up for Marathon Monday, one of most iconic and highly attended events of the year.”

— Marc Fortier, Author

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The 130th Boston Marathon will bring exciting changes and a world-class field of runners to one of the most prestigious running events, further cementing the race's status as a must-see spectacle for the city of Boston and running enthusiasts worldwide.