Organisers have unveiled the 1K and 5K Unity Challenge routes taking place on Sunday 16 August during the Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships.
The 5k and 1k routes for this summer’s Unity Challenge mass-participation event on the final day of the Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships have been revealed.
The greatest European endurance athletes will take on the road marathon in Birmingham city centre on Sunday 16 August, and athletics fans are being given the opportunity to have their own medal moment at the Championships by signing up for the Unity Challenge.
The Unity 5K route will take in the world-famous Utilita Arena, the iconic Chamberlain Clock, and the picturesque St Paul’s Square, before joining the Unity 1K route on Colmore Row.
Both routes will pass the stunning Birmingham Cathedral and the Grade II listed Birmingham City Council House, before participants cross the Finish Line at Victoria Square.
Entries are still open for people aged three and over, and all abilities, to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime event as the European Athletics Championships comes to the UK for the first time in its 92-year history.
Taking place on Sunday, 16 August, the Unity 5K offers a truly once-in-a-lifetime chance to follow in the footsteps of Europe’s star athletes just moments after they compete for continental titles. The closed roads, roaring crowds and championship energy will belong to everyone.
Alongside the headline Unity 5K, a 1K fun run open to everyone aged three and up will give families, schools, clubs and first timers the chance to join in the fun.
Cherry Alexander OBE, Vice President of European Athletics and Championship Director for Birmingham 2026, said: “We’re delighted the public has the opportunity to line the route of the elite race walks and marathon events to witness the best in the world competing in the heart of Birmingham, and thanks to the Unity 5K and 1K, the chance to share the course and have their own medal moment.
“It’s a Birmingham city-centre route, with Birmingham landmarks and architecture at centre stage. We hope as many locals and visitors for the Championships take the opportunity to join us and grab this once-in-a-lifetime medal for their collection.”
Councillor Sharon Thompson, Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “Hosting a world-class event like the European Athletics Championships is a huge honour, and the Unity 5K and 1K on the final day makes it even more exciting.
“These events give our residents the unique opportunity to not just witness elite sport but experience the race for themselves, right here on the streets of Birmingham.
“It is a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to get active, celebrate our city, and be part of something truly inspiring.”
The Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships, which take place at Perry Barr’s Alexander Stadium from 10-16 August 2026, will see some of the greatest athletes compete for medals in front of the world’s biggest athletics supporters.
Find out more and book:
- Early-bird pricing for the Unity events is available until the 31 March, find out more and sign up here.
- Tickets are also back on sale for the UK’s first ever hosting of the Championships at Alexander Stadium this August – tickets.birmingham.com
Age event information
Alongside the headline Unity 5K, a 1K fun run is open to everyone aged 3 and up. Children aged 12 and under can take part in the 1K for free and receive a free adult companion bib for someone aged 18 or over to run with them.
