Get ready for a new pinnacle event in distance running. World Athletics has announced plans to launch a standalone World Marathon Championships, with the inaugural event potentially being held in the historic city of Athens, Greece, from 2030.

This move will elevate the marathon to its own dedicated global stage. While the 26.2-mile race will remain part of the main World Athletics Championships in 2027 and 2029, it will then spin off into an annual championship starting in 2030, with men's and women's editions held in alternating years.

World Athletics President Lord Sebastian Coe hailed the marathon as an "iconic discipline" and expressed delight at exploring options with Athens. "This is an opportunity to create a dedicated global celebration of marathon running," Coe said, "held in a setting that honours its heritage while shaping a modern championship that reflects the scale and spirit of the global running community."

The potential choice of Athens is deeply symbolic, connecting the modern championship to the ancient origins of the marathon. This new event promises to become a major fixture on the global sports calendar, celebrating the endurance, strategy, and sheer will that define the marathon. For runners and fans, it means another thrilling world title to chase and celebrate every year.

Meanwhile, the final marathon within the traditional World Athletics Championships could be a spectacular one if London's bid to host the 2029 event is successful, offering a fitting send-off before the new standalone era begins.