Detroit Free Press Marathon and International Half Marathon Sell Out in Record Time for 2026
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The Detroit Free Press Marathon and its International Half Marathon have sold out for 2026 in record time, marking the fastest registration sellout in the event’s history and underscoring the race’s growing national demand.
Record-Breaking Registration Speed
Race organizers confirmed that entries for the full marathon were claimed in just 6 days - significantly earlier than in previous years. The International Half Marathon also reached capacity at an accelerated pace. The early sellouts across both signature distances represent a notable milestone for the Detroit Free Press Marathon weekend, which has continued to expand its reach beyond the Midwest.
A Unique Cross-Border Racing Experience
A defining feature of the event is its unique international course. Runners cross the Ambassador Bridge into Canada before returning to the United States through the Detroit–Windsor Tunnel, making it the only marathon and half marathon in North America to offer a cross-border racing experience. The International Half Marathon shares that same route distinction, contributing to its rising popularity among runners seeking a distinctive race.
Performance and National Recognition
In addition to its international appeal, the Detroit Free Press Marathon has earned a reputation for a fast, relatively flat course and strong spectator support. These elements have increasingly attracted runners pursuing personal records, Boston Marathon qualifying times, or a marquee fall race without the uncertainty of a lottery system—though the 2026 sellout suggests that window is rapidly closing.
National recognition has further fueled interest in the event. In 2025, the Detroit Free Press Marathon was voted the best marathon in the United States in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. The honor elevated the race’s profile and placed it among the country’s top-tier marathons, contributing to increased demand in subsequent registration cycles.
Leadership and the Resurgence of Detroit
The event is led by Aaron Velthoven, Vice President and Race Director of the Detroit Free Press Marathon, who has overseen its continued growth and evolution. Under his leadership, the race has emphasized operational execution, runner experience, and its distinctive international identity.
Detroit’s resurgence as a destination city has also played a role in the event’s appeal. The course highlights downtown Detroit and surrounding neighborhoods, while local spectators provide consistent support along the route. For many participants, the marathon offers the atmosphere of a major-city race paired with a more accessible, community-focused experience.
Industry Trends and Future Outlook
The record-time sellouts align with broader trends across the running industry, as participation in distance events continues to rise and runners increasingly prioritize races that offer both competitive value and memorable experiences. Major marathons nationwide have reported faster registration closures in recent years, and Detroit’s 2026 sellout reflects that momentum.
While additional race weekend events may remain open depending on capacity, the rapid sellout of both the full marathon and International Half Marathon sends a clear message to runners planning future seasons: the Detroit Free Press Marathon is no longer a race that allows for late registration. As demand continues to grow, the event’s status among the nation’s premier marathons appears firmly established.
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