The Charlotte Sports Foundation (CSF) today announced that the 2026 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon has officially sold out, marking the earliest sellout in the event’s history. With more than 13,250 runners set to take to the streets of the Queen City on Nov. 14 to participate in either the marathon, half-marathon, or Chick-fil-A 5K, the milestone underscores the race’s continued growth and Charlotte’s rising profile as a destination for runners.
Now in its 22nd year, the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon has grown into one of the city’s most anticipated annual sporting events, bringing together runners of all experience levels, enthusiastic spectators, and neighborhoods across Charlotte. Following its largest race to date in 2025, which welcomed over 11,000 runners, this year’s record-setting demand signals another exciting chapter for the event, which is now under the leadership of the Charlotte Sports Foundation.
Also new this year, CSF has focused on continuing to elevate the runner experience and building on the excitement around race day. Efforts have included:
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Inaugural Prize Purse: Establishing the first-ever purse for top-qualifying runners, including overall top five, as well as top male and female finishers in Charlotte for both the full and half marathon.
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Special Guest Partnership: Partnering with Grammy-nominated recording artist Waka Flocka Flame to bring his Flock Run series alongside a post-race party and concert to Charlotte as part of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon.
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Cheer Station Program: Launching an enhanced cheer station program to incentivize businesses, run clubs, neighborhood groups, and spectators to cheer on runners on their journey through the city.
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Live Community Art: Commissioning a local artist to create a motivational mural painted live as participants run by.
“To sell out earlier than ever before is a testament to the incredible momentum behind the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon and the community that makes this event so special,” said Will Pitts, CEO of the Charlotte Sports Foundation. “We’re proud to build on the race’s legacy and create an experience that brings thousands of runners and spectators together to celebrate our city. We’re grateful to Novant Health, our partners, and the entire city of Charlotte for coming together to help create what is sure to be a special day.”
“We are excited to welcome more than 13,000 runners to the Queen City for the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. Selling out the race reflects not only the tremendous growth of the event, but also the community’s commitment to supporting our youngest patients and their families at Hemby Children’s Hospital,” said Chris Bowe, senior vice president and president of Novant Health’s Charlotte region. “We look forward to cheering on the participants on race day and invite supporters from across Charlotte to come out and line the course to help create a remarkable experience for the runners.”
“The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon is a marquee event that we are proud to have in our great city and benefitting a meaningful cause,” said Mayor Rob Harrington. “Whether this is your hometown race or you’re joining us from out of town, we hope you enjoy the beauty and character of the Queen City. To my fellow Charlotteans, let’s line the streets on race day and make this year an unforgettable experience.”
While registration is officially full, interested runners can still sign up for the waitlist across all three distances. For non-runners, the community is encouraged to join in on the excitement and experience the energy and spirit of the Queen City by cheering on participants along the course or volunteering to support the event.
For more information about the 2026 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, including joining the waitlist for registration openings, visit TheCharlotteMarathon.com.
About Charlotte Sports Foundation
The mission of the Charlotte Sports Foundation (CSF), a 501(c)(3), is to provide leadership for sports-based initiatives that result in a positive impact on the economy and quality of life in the Charlotte region. CSF was created in the spring of 2013 as a combined entity of Charlotte’s two primary sports development groups, Charlotte Collegiate Football and the Charlotte Regional Sports Commission. Its origins can be traced to the vision of Charlotte civic leaders after the very successful hosting of the 1994 NCAA Men’s Final Four.
The Foundation also provides support for recruitment and operation of other local sporting events, and spearheads Charlotte’s continued growth as a preferred host for premier national and regional sporting events. The events include college basketball’s Dick Vitale Invitational presented by Belk and Ally Tipoff, college football’s Duke’s Mayo Bowl, ACC Football Championship Game and Duke’s Mayo Classic, and tennis’ Charlotte Invitational.
The Board of Directors that guides the Charlotte Sports Foundation boasts a dynamic roster of top Charlotte civic and business leaders. Please visit www.CharlotteSports.org for more information.
