Sofia road closures announced for Ekiden Marathon 2026

The Sofia Municipality has announced significant traffic changes and road closures in central Sofia due to the Sofia Ekiden Marathon 2026. The event is being held to commemorate the 141st anniversary of the Unification of the Principality of Bulgaria and Eastern Rumelia.

Scheduled for September 6, between 7:30 and 13:30, the marathon features a 5-kilometer course designed to promote long-distance relay running. The term ‘ekiden’ originates from Japan, signifying a relay race involving different points or stations.

The race will start and finish at the intersection of Gen. Gurko Street and Evlogi and Hristo Georgiev Boulevard, in front of the Vasil Levski National Stadium. The route includes several major thoroughfares, including Blvd. Vasil Levski, Blvd. Cherni Vrah, and the pedestrian zone of Vitosha Boulevard.

Drivers should expect closures on Blvd. Evlogi and Hristo Georgiev, Gen. Gurko Street, Lyuben Karavelov Street, and Dragan Tsankov Boulevard during the specified hours. Parking restrictions will also be in effect around the Vasil Levski National Stadium.