New Atomium start for Brussels Airport marathon races on 2 October

Now in its 17th year, the Brussels Airport Marathon and Half Marathon is a chance for people all around the world to put on their running shoes and visit the city of Brussels on 2 October.

Starting underneath the iconic silver spheres of the Atomium and finishing at the King Baudoin Stadium, the new course is a fast, flatter and attractive challenge. One third of contestants hail from abroad, which is one reason why the international symbol of Brussels and Belgium is the launch pad for the race.

For participants wanting to run for a good cause, the marathon and half marathon support the Demoucelle Parkinson Charity, which carries out scientific research into a cure for Parkinson’s disease.

And if both races sound too daunting, the event has linked up with Think Pink’s Race for the Cure to offer a 10km race, a 3km walk and Kid’s 1km run. They give more people an opportunity to participate while raising funds for breast cancer research.

All the courses will take runners, fittingly, along the Avenue de Marathon and past some of the city’s interesting historical and cultural landmarks, such as the Castle of Laeken and the Brussels Royal Yacht Club, to name but a few.

The finish and medal ceremony will be held at the King Baudouin Stadium, the home pitch for Belgium’s national football team, the Red Devils.

Photo: 2019 edition of Brussels Airport marathon