Be part of Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships' Unity challenge

West-Midlanders are being given the opportunity to have their own medal moment alongside the greatest European runners at the new Unity 5K and Unity 1K.

Entries are now officially open for the Unity 5K, a new mass participation event that will see thousands of runners take over Birmingham city centre, running the same route as the Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships marathon course on Sunday 16 August, the final day of the championships.

The morning will see the greatest European runners taking on the road marathon in the city centre of Birmingham, and once the winners have been crowned, the route will be opened to the masses to have their own medal moment as they follow in the footsteps of the elites.

Mayor Richard Parker and West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) are providing funding for the region to host the European Athletics Championships.

The Mayor: “Our region has a proud history of producing world-class talent, including West Brom’s golden girl Dame Denise Lewis, ‘Darlaston Dart’ Mark Lewis-Francis, Coventry’s world record-breaker David Moorcroft and today’s sprint sensation from Wolverhampton, Matt Hudson-Smith.

"The Unity Challenge is a moment for our communities to shine, whether you’re chasing the dream of becoming our next sports star or simply looking for the motivation to live a more active, healthier life.”

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. Children under 13 can take part in the 1K for free, adding another opportunity for young people to be part of the European Championships buzz.

Starting at Broad Street and finishing at Victoria Square, the Unity 5K will join the whole city together ahead of the final championship action that evening at the Alexander Stadium.

Jack Buckner, CEO of UK Athletics and former European 5000m Champion said: “The Unity 5K is all about joy, togetherness and celebrating this incredible event with the people who make the West Midlands what it is.

"How often do you get to run on a European Championship course? This is your moment. Whether you're running, jogging or taking it all in with friends and family, it’s going to be an experience you’ll never forget.”  

With Great Britain & Northern Ireland aiming to extend their status as the most successful nation in European Athletics Championships history, the Unity 5K and 1K events give the public its own chance to share the spotlight — turning the final Sunday into a city-wide running festival. 

Cllr Sharon Thompson, Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “We could not be more thrilled to welcome the European Athletics Championships to Birmingham next summer!

“This will be an incredible celebration of sporting excellence, and we are ready to showcase our city to athletes, fans, and visitors from across Europe and beyond.

“Hosting a world-class event like this is a huge honour, and the addition of 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. Don’t miss out, sign up and join us in making Birmingham shine on the European stage.”

Entries are open now, and demand is expected to be strong. Full details and registration are available on the Birmingham 2026 website.