As a key event of the Shanghai Marathon series, the Shanghai Half Marathon will be held on March 15. Details regarding registration timelines and procedures are outlined below.

Event information

• Date & time: March 15, 7 am
• Start point: Oriental Pearl Tower (Fenghe Road)
• Finish point: SPD Bank Oriental Sports Center (Yongyao Road)
• Distance: 21.0975 kilometers
• Number of participants: 15,000

A decade of excellence

Since its launch in 2015, the Shanghai Half Marathon has grown into a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race and one of Shanghai's signature running events. Over the past 10 years, the event has steadily elevated its operational standards, competitive quality, and overall reputation.

Last year, Ethiopian runner Ftaw Zeray won the women's division in 1:06:36, setting a new women's course record — the third consecutive year the record has been broken at this event. The achievement underscores the event's rising profile on the international stage and its appeal to elite athletes.

This year, the race continues its "direct entry to the Shanghai Marathon" qualification mechanism. The top 200 male and top 100 female finishers will secure guaranteed entry to the 2026 Shanghai Marathon.

Optimized course and runner services

This year's route has been optimized for an enhanced runner experience, taking participants through the Lujiazui financial zone, World Expo Park, and the vibrant Qiantan area, a scenic journey that highlights Shanghai's evolving urban character.

Event organization emphasizes scientific management and safety, with well-placed aid stations and medical points providing comprehensive support. The mid-March date offers favorable weather conditions, while the finish area will feature ample refreshments and recovery facilities.

Registration guide

1. General runners

• Pre-registration: Jan 16, 10 am to Jan 19, 2 pm
• Lottery results announced: Jan 27
• Payment window: After results announcement until Jan 30 at noon
• Failure to pay on time will result in forfeiture of the entry, with no alternative entry channels available.

2. Qualified direct-entry runners

• Eligibility: Top 200 male and top 100 female finishers in the 2025 Shanghai Elite 10K Race
• Registration: Jan 16, 10 am to Jan 23 at noon
• Direct-entry runners who complete registration and payment are guaranteed a spot without entering the lottery.

3. Entry fee

160 yuan ($22.96) per person

Source: Shanghai Marathon