Countdown begins for Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon as race day approaches

The countdown is well and truly on for the return of the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, as thousands of runners of all ages and abilities prepare to take to the streets of Leeds on Sunday 10 May.

Delivered by Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All in partnership with Leeds City Council, the 2026 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon promises to be one of the most inspiring events in the city’s sporting calendar – bringing together first-time marathon runners, charity fundraisers, elite athletes, and wheelchair participants in a powerful celebration of community, courage and determination.

This year’s event will once again honour the extraordinary legacy of the late Rob Burrow CBE, whose impact continues to be felt far beyond the rugby field. In a fitting tribute to the Leeds Rhinos legend, the marathon will raise vital funds for Leeds Hospitals Charity and the MND Association, helping to support those living with the condition while driving forward specialist care and research.

While many participants will be running in memory of Rob or in support of the MND community, runners are also encouraged to fundraise for a charity close to their own hearts. Event partner charities include Leeds Hospitals Charity, MND Association, Leeds North and West Foodbank, Candlelighters, Leeds Rhinos Foundation, Happy Days, Macmillan Cancer Support, My Name’5 Doddie, the Jane Tomlinson Appeal, and St Gemma’s Hospice.

True to its ethos since day one, the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon remains firmly committed to inclusivity and mass participation. Whether participants are chasing a personal best, taking on their very first marathon, joining as part of a group, or entering in a wheelchair, the event is designed to inspire people from all backgrounds to challenge themselves and be part of something truly special.

The marathon will once again start and finish at AMT Headingley Stadium – a fitting setting in the city where Rob’s career was launched and which he proudly called home. The iconic and challenging route showcases the very best of Leeds, winding through the vibrant streets of Headingley, out to the market town of Otley and back again, passing through a mix of diverse neighbourhoods and stunning countryside.

From the starting line to the final mile, runners will be cheered on by thousands of spectators, supported by volunteers, schools, community groups and local performers, creating an electric atmosphere and a memorable day for the entire city.

With race day fast approaching, excitement continues to build as Leeds prepares to come together once more – to run, to remember, and to celebrate the incredible legacy of Rob Burrow.

Tristan Batley-Kyle, Operations Director at Run For All, commented: “We are extremely excited as the 2026 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon draws closer.

It’s a fantastic day for the city, and we can’t wait to welcome participants of all ages and abilities to the start line, backing and cheering them on from the very first step right through to the finish.

Through the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, we will continue to honour Rob’s legacy, raise vital funds for so many important causes, and keep shining a spotlight on the MND community.”