Ljubljana Marathon hits record 33,000 participants for 30th anniversary

The 30th anniversary of the NLB Ljubljana Marathon has reached a record participation level, with 33,281 runners registered for the event held on October 17 and 18, 2026. This represents a 27% increase in participants for the main distances compared to the previous year.

The event features significant international diversity, with 7,774 participants from 84 different countries. Over 2,600 students from 38 nations will also compete for European student titles. The demographic includes a wide age range, with the oldest participant being 93 years old from France, while the average age is 37.3 years.

Elite competition includes returning winner Haftamu Abadi Gebresilase from Ethiopia and Tigist Gezahagn Menigstu. Other top-tier athletes from Kenya, Eritrea, and Bahrain are also scheduled to compete. Locally, Slovenian runners such as Primož Kobe, Jan Kokalj, and Jakob Medved will participate in various distances.