New collaboration aims to boost international profile of Wales’ biggest road race
CARDIFF Airport has been announced as an official partner of the 2026 Cardiff Half Marathon, strengthening links between one of Wales’ flagship sporting events and the country’s international gateway.
Organisers say the partnership reflects a shared ambition to showcase Cardiff on a global stage while delivering wider economic and social benefits across Wales.
The Cardiff Half Marathon, which takes place on Sunday, October 4, is part of the SuperHalfs series, alongside races in Lisbon, Prague, Berlin, Copenhagen and Valencia. The event has attracted growing numbers of overseas runners in recent years, drawn to the iconic 13.1-mile route through the Welsh capital.
Run 4 Wales, which organises the race, said the new partnership supports its wider mission of driving positive social change. Surpluses from the event are reinvested through the Run 4 Wales Charitable Foundation, funding grassroots sport and community projects.
Cardiff Airport currently offers 39 direct routes to European destinations, as well as transatlantic connections. This includes a new direct service between Cardiff and Toronto, operated by WestJet, launching in May.
Matt Newman, Chief Executive of Run 4 Wales, said: “We’re really excited to welcome Cardiff Airport as an official partner of the Cardiff Half Marathon. Like us, it shares the vision of showcasing our fantastic city to the rest of the world.
“We’re very much looking forward to seeing what the future holds for this new collaboration as we take off on this new chapter together.”
Jon Bridge, Chief Executive of Cardiff Airport, said the airport was proud to support the event.
“It’s a flagship event for Wales and one that brings huge energy and visibility to Cardiff each year,” he said.
“We’re delighted to play our part in welcoming participants and spectators from across the UK and beyond, showcasing not only the city but also the warm Welsh welcome and the growing connectivity that Cardiff Airport provides.”
To mark the partnership, organisers are offering the chance to win a £100 flight voucher, with details available via the Cardiff Half Marathon Instagram page.
More information about the 2026 race can be found at the Cardiff Half Marathon website.
