Everything You Need to Know About the 2026 Los Angeles Marathon
More than 26,000 Runners Prepare for the Sold-Out 2026 ASICS Los Angeles Marathon
This Sunday, March 8, the 2026 ASICS Los Angeles Marathon will kick off at Dodger Stadium, featuring a sold-out field of over 26,000 runners. As participants gear up for the event, here are essential details about the race.
Race Start Time and Course Map
The marathon will begin at 7 a.m., with runners allowed 6 hours and 30 minutes to complete the course once the last participant crosses the starting line. The 26.2-mile route will take athletes through iconic Los Angeles neighborhoods, including Little Tokyo, Hollywood, and Beverly Hills.
"Our course is one of a kind," said Meg Treat from the McCourt Foundation. Runners will pass landmarks such as the Capitol Records Tower, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Rodeo Drive. Additional information and a full course map can be found on the McCourt Foundation’s website.
The finish line is located at Santa Monica Boulevard and Avenue of the Stars in Century City.
Entertainment Along the Route
According to Treat, the marathon will feature 126 "cheer zones" organized by charities and running clubs. Spectators can also expect a variety of performances, including DJs, dragon dancers, and mariachi bands, enhancing the festive atmosphere throughout the course.
Viewing Options
NBC4 and Telemundo 52 will serve as the official broadcast partners for this year’s marathon, extending their partnership until at least 2029. Viewers can tune in to the live broadcast from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. Coverage will be available in both English and Spanish. Additionally, a livestream of the marathon will be accessible via the NBC4 website and platforms like YouTube and Facebook.
A live blog will highlight key moments throughout the marathon, keeping audiences engaged on social media.
Road Closures
Participants and spectators should anticipate numerous road closures as a result of the marathon. Notably, some freeway ramps on the 101 and 405 Freeways will close as early as 3 a.m. on race day. A comprehensive list of closures, including street closures starting at 4 a.m., is available for review.
Parking Suggestions
To facilitate viewing, organizers recommend that spectators secure pre-paid parking reservations. Preferred locations include the Westfield Century City Mall and several nearby avenues. Attendees are urged to adhere to “no parking” signs in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Weather Forecast
Weather forecasts indicate a cool start, with temperatures around 55 degrees at the race’s 7 a.m. kickoff. As the day progresses, temperatures are expected to reach highs of 80 degrees by noon and around 83 degrees by 3 p.m. Clear and sunny conditions are projected throughout the day, making for favorable marathon conditions. Notably, Daylight Saving Time will commence at 2 a.m. on race day.
Previous Marathon Records
Last year, Matt Richtman made headlines by becoming the first American to win the Los Angeles Marathon in 31 years, finishing with a time of 2:07:56. Tejinesh Tulu of Ethiopia captured the women’s title with a time of 2:30:16. Current records stand at 2:06:35 for men, held by Markos Geneti of Ethiopia, and 2:24:11 for women, established by Askale Merachi, also of Ethiopia.
Inspiring Marathon Stories
Every participant brings their unique story to the marathon. Several runners are using this year’s event to honor loved ones, with tales of resilience, dedication, and community spirit shaping the narrative of the race.
As the LA Marathon approaches, the city stands ready to celebrate both the athletes and the rich tapestry of stories that accompanies this iconic event.
