The Global Marathon Boom

Not long ago, running was a solitary routine—an early morning jog, a personal goal, a quiet test of endurance. But today, it has become a global movement, drawing millions of new runners and turning marathons into some of the most sought-after events in the world. In this episode, we explore the explosive rise of long-distance running, tracing how a pandemic-era habit evolved into a cultural phenomenon fueled by younger generations and digital fitness communities. From record-breaking applications in major city races to the expansion of new courses and exclusive multi-race challenges, we examine how the sport is scaling to meet unprecedented demand. The story reveals a new kind of athletic ambition, where crossing the finish line is more than personal achievement—it’s a symbol of status, discipline, and belonging in a rapidly growing global community.https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/04/23/runaway-success-marathon-organisers-are-seeing-record-demand