Legendary marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge has officially announced that the 2026 edition of NB42k Porto Alegre in Porto Alegre will serve as the South American stop of his ambitious global running initiative, Eliud’s Running World. The race is scheduled for Sunday, July 12, 2026, and will form part of a groundbreaking project in which the Kenyan icon plans to run a marathon on all seven continents to inspire communities and promote healthier lifestyles worldwide.
The global initiative aims to bring the spirit of distance running to every corner of the planet while celebrating the unique cultures and running communities found across continents. Over the next two years, the series will feature seven marathons—one on each continent—where Kipchoge will not only compete but also connect with local runners, participate in community activities, and share his philosophy of discipline, resilience, and unity through sport.
For Eliud Kipchoge, racing in Brazil carries special meaning. The country is where he captured his first Olympic marathon gold medal during the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, a victory that cemented his status as one of the greatest marathon runners in history. Returning to Brazil nearly a decade later allows him to reconnect with a passionate running culture and relive a place that holds significant milestones in his career.
“Running is a universal language that speaks to hope, discipline, and unity,” Kipchoge said in a statement announcing the tour stop. “I am very excited to come to Brazil and experience the passion of the people of Porto Alegre. Every continent has its own spirit, and I look forward to sharing this journey with South America while inspiring people to believe that no human is limited.”
The participation of Eliud Kipchoge instantly elevates the profile of the race and highlights the growing global significance of the Porto Alegre marathon. Over the years, the NB42k Porto Alegre has developed a reputation as one of South America’s most exciting road races, attracting elite athletes and thousands of amateur runners who fill the streets each year. Known for its energetic crowds and festive atmosphere, the event blends competitive sport with a celebration of community along the scenic routes of Porto Alegre.
Organizers say Kipchoge’s presence will mark a historic milestone for the event. Cláudio Soirefmann, CEO of Run Sports, described the moment as transformational for Brazilian running.
“Bringing Eliud Kipchoge to NB42K Porto Alegre is a historic milestone for our race and for Brazilian running,” Soirefmann said. “After everything our community has faced, this moment carries even deeper meaning. We are honored to be part of Eliud’s Running World and proud to welcome the world to Porto Alegre.”
The marathon is expected to draw significant international attention, with fans and runners eager to share the course with one of the most celebrated endurance athletes in history. Beyond competition, Kipchoge’s tour places strong emphasis on community engagement, cultural exchange, and social impact at every stop.
Through the initiative, Kipchoge and his team will also raise funds for the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation, which focuses on environmental conservation and expanding access to education in underserved communities. The Brazilian leg of the tour will hold particular importance given the devastating floods that struck Porto Alegre in 2024, an event that deeply affected local communities and infrastructure.
In addition to running the marathon, Kipchoge will participate in local activities designed to bring together runners of all levels—from elite competitors to beginners. The goal is to foster a sense of unity and demonstrate how running can bridge cultures, inspire healthier lifestyles, and support global causes.
The South American stop is one chapter in what promises to be a remarkable two-year journey. With six continents already planned within the series, anticipation continues to build as fans wait to learn where the final destination will be.
Organizers confirmed that the last location of the 2026 leg of the tour will be announced on Friday, March 13, completing the lineup for a project that aims to turn the entire planet into what Kipchoge calls “a running world.”