On November 11, 2026, Warsaw will once again become the arena for one of the country's most popular running events. The 36th Independence Run, organized by the Capital City Sports Centre Aktywna Warszawa and the Warsaw Marathon Foundation, is not only a sporting event but also holds historical significance. The event is a key element of the Warsaw Running Triad "Compete for Memory," combining physical activity with the commemoration of Independence Day.
Available Distances
Participants in this year's edition will have several options to choose from. The main race covers a distance of 10 kilometers. For those preferring a more relaxed activity, a 5-kilometer Nordic walking route has been prepared. The organizers have also accommodated younger sports enthusiasts by offering a virtual run and the "Mile of Independence," a 1,918-meter distance designated for children and youth.
Daily Schedule
The entire event will last from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. The first stage of the day will be the operation of the Race Office, where bibs will be available for collection between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Simultaneously, media accreditation can be collected at the Press Office between 8:30 AM and 10:30 AM.
The sporting competitions will begin at 10:00 AM with the start of the Mile of Independence. The main 10 km race is divided into two starting waves, allowing for smooth organization and the safety of participants.
The first wave, concerning bibs with a red background, will start with a warm-up led by Well Fitness at 10:59 AM. Following the communal singing of the National Anthem at 11:07 AM, the start will occur at 11:08 AM for athletes starting with an active drive, on handbikes, and in tandems. The main starts for Zones I, II, and III are scheduled for 11:11 AM, 11:21 AM, and 11:35 AM, respectively. These zones correspond to different time intervals, for example, Zone I for finishes between 30:00 and 43:59, and Zone III for 50:00 and 55:59.
The second wave, covering bibs with a white background, will begin with a warm-up at 11:50 AM, and the National Anthem will be heard again at 11:55 AM. The starts for Zones IV, V, and VI are scheduled for 12:00 PM, 12:15 PM, and 12:30 PM, respectively. Zone IV covers times between 56:00 and 59:59, Zone V between 1:00:00 and 1:04:59, and Zone VI for results over 1:05:00.
Conclusion and Nordic Walking
After the main runs, the start of the 5 km Nordic walking march will take place at 12:45 PM. The award ceremony for the top participants in the general classification, as well as for athletes starting in direct-drive wheelchairs and in tandems, is planned for approximately 1:00 PM. A classification for Warsaw residents has also been included. The event will officially conclude at 3:30 PM.