Chicago Marathon
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Event details
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is scheduled as the 48th running on Sunday, October 11, 2026. The race distance is 26.2-mile. The event includes a Para Athletics Program and is part of broader Chicago Distance Series events. Participants are required to complete the course within six hours and 30 minutes and 59 seconds (6:30:59) as a course reopening threshold.
Applications, entry and requirements
The application process for guaranteed and non-guaranteed entries for the 2026 race had a set application window that closed on November 18. Non-guaranteed entries were allocated by a drawing; applicants were notified of selection by email. Guaranteed entry paths included time qualifiers by age and division, legacy finisher status (five or more Chicago Marathon finishes within the last 10 years, with certain exclusions), official charity team entries, and approved tour operators. Charity entries require fundraising of at least $2,200 (USD) and are available on a first-come, first-served basis until charity capacity or September 15, 2026. The High Performance Program had a capacity of 150 participants and reached capacity.
Entry fees were listed as $250 (USD) for U.S. residents and $260 (USD) for non-U.S. residents; fees and any processing charges are nonrefundable and are processed automatically when an application is approved or selected. Applicants must be 16 or older on race day, with parental permission required for ages 16-17. Packet pickup is required in person at the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo and participants must present a government-issued photo ID matching their registration name. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
