The race will start on the Ormeau Embankment, with runners following a route around the city before finishing at Ormeau Park. The race is set to begin at 9 a.m., with the final participants expected to finish around 12 p.m.

Due to the event, traffic disruptions are anticipated, and roads will begin closing either partially or fully from approximately 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., according to Belfast City Marathon operations manager Eimear Degan.


This year’s 13.1-mile race will see its largest participation to date, with 6,600 runners expected to take part.

John Allen, chairman of the Belfast City Marathon, said: “We are thrilled to welcome a record number of participants to Belfast for what has become a key event in Northern Ireland’s athletic calendar.

“We extend our gratitude to the local community for their patience during the event, and to the volunteers who generously give their time to help ensure the event runs smoothly.”

Lead runners are expected to cross the Sam Thompson Bridge onto Airport Road around 9:35 a.m. and reach Queens Square by 9:40 a.m. via Sydenham Road and the Lagan Weir Pedestrian Bridge.

From there, runners will pass through the city centre, moving from Custom House Square via High Street, Cornmarket, William Street, Montgomery Street, Chichester Street, and Castle Street at around 9:50 a.m., before continuing towards Falls Road.

Traffic disruptions are expected on Grosvenor Road, Great Victoria Street, and Bruce Street, extending toward Dublin Road, Shaftesbury Square, and Botanic Avenue between 8:30 a.m. and 11:50 a.m.

“We understand the inconvenience that race-day traffic disruptions can cause,” Mr. Allen added. “However, we kindly ask motorists to follow diversion signs and directions from stewards. These measures are in place to ensure the safety of both participants and road users.”