Jerusalem, Israel — Israel will host four major international endurance events during the winter and spring of 2026, drawing athletes from across the globe to compete in races that combine physical challenge with some of the country’s most distinctive natural and historic settings.
The events include Challenge Israman in Eilat, the Dead Sea Marathon, the Tel Aviv Marathon, and the International Jerusalem Winner Marathon. Organizers say the races are designed to accommodate elite competitors and recreational athletes alike, while highlighting Israel’s geographic diversity and cultural heritage.
Together, the four events position Israel as a destination for international sports tourism, offering courses that range from desert landscapes and coastal routes to historic urban centers.
Challenge Israman Returns to Eilat
Challenge Israman 2026 will take place in Eilat from January 28 to January 31. Widely regarded as one of Israel’s most demanding endurance competitions, the event features a full Iron distance race, a half Iron distance option, and relay categories.
According to race organizers, participants will begin with a 2.4 mile swim in the clear waters of the Gulf of Eilat. The cycling segment spans 112 miles and climbs Route 12 through the Eilat Mountains, offering expansive views of the Arava Valley. Athletes then complete a full 26.2 mile marathon through Eilat’s promenade, lagoon area, and central city.
The competition attracts leading Israeli athletes alongside international participants. Organizers describe Israman as a test of endurance set against dramatic desert terrain, mountain vistas, and the Red Sea. Visitors attending the event are also encouraged to explore Eilat and other winter activities across Israel.
Dead Sea Marathon Offers One of a Kind Course
The Dead Sea Marathon is scheduled for February 6 and is considered one of the most unique running events worldwide. The race takes place at the lowest point on Earth and features a course that winds through desert landscapes and ancient salt formations.
Unlike traditional road races, much of the Dead Sea Marathon is run on off road trails, reducing asphalt exposure and emphasizing the natural environment. A signature feature of the race allows participants to run onto the surface of the Dead Sea via a specially prepared dirt embankment that is not accessible to the general public.
Race organizers offer multiple distances, ranging from an ultramarathon to a 5K, allowing runners of varying fitness levels to participate. The event has gained international recognition and is increasingly viewed as a bucket list race among adventure focused athletes.
Tel Aviv Marathon Draws Tens of Thousands
The Tel Aviv Marathon will be held on February 27 and is expected to draw more than 40,000 participants. The race includes a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, and a children’s mini marathon. A hand cycle category is also offered to ensure accessibility for athletes with disabilities.
The course begins near the Tel Aviv Convention Center on Rokach Boulevard and leads runners through the city’s streets and along the Mediterranean coastline. Participants pass through Jaffa, one of the region’s oldest port cities, offering views that blend ancient history with modern urban life.
Municipal officials describe the marathon as one of Tel Aviv’s largest annual sporting events, reflecting the city’s energy and international character while providing scenic coastal views.
Jerusalem Marathon Blends Sport and History
The International Jerusalem Winner Marathon will take place on March 27, marking its 15th year. Tens of thousands of runners from Israel and abroad are expected to participate.
The course weaves through Jerusalem’s historic and modern landmarks, including the Old City walls, David’s Tower, Mount Scopus, Haas Promenade, the Knesset, Machane Yehuda Market, and Hebrew University. Organizers say the route offers runners a rare opportunity to experience more than 3,000 years of Jewish history while competing in a demanding athletic event.
Race distances include a full marathon, half marathon, and 10K, making the event accessible to a wide range of participants. The marathon is widely regarded as one of the most scenic and challenging urban races in the world.
Growing Role of Sports Tourism
Israeli tourism officials and race organizers say the four events reflect Israel’s growing role in international sports tourism. Each race combines athletic challenge with exposure to Israel’s landscapes, history, and culture.
Athletes and spectators traveling to Israel for the events are expected to contribute to local economies while engaging with sites across the country, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Eilat, and the Dead Sea region.
As Israel prepares to host thousands of international runners in early 2026, organizers emphasize that the races are not only competitions but also opportunities to experience the country through movement, endurance, and shared global participation.
