Naples is gearing up for a significant sporting spectacle in 2026, as it prepares to host the Coelmo Napoli City Half Marathon, an event expected to draw an impressive 10,000 runners. This comes as Naples proudly holds the title of European City of Sport for 2026, further solidifying its position as a major international hub for large-scale events.
“Running in Beauty”: A Scenic Route Through Naples
Sergio Colella, the Metropolitan City of Naples Councillor for Sport, Youth, and Events, highlighted the unique appeal of the marathon. “Running in Beauty. In Naples, in the year of the European Capital of Sport 2026, it is possible. And the city is preparing to welcome a colorful and peaceful invasion. 10,000 runners will invade our streets, a flood of athletes who will stretch along the 21.097 km route, admiring a breathtaking scenery, among the most evocative in the Mediterranean and beyond,” Colella stated during the presentation yesterday, February 18, in the City Hall Council Chamber.
The race, organized by Carlo Capalbo, promises to offer participants a stunning backdrop as they traverse the city’s streets. The event is anticipated to not only attract a large number of athletes but also to showcase Naples’ picturesque landscapes to a global audience.
Anticipating New Records and Enhanced Brand Reputation
The Coelmo Napoli City Half Marathon is poised to build upon its legacy of impressive performances. “A Sunday to remember is anticipated, also for the new records that can be achieved after those of Yeman Crippa in 2022 and Sofiia Yaremchuck in 2024. The Coelmo Napoli City Half Marathon will add prestige to Partenope’s brand reputation and will convey to the world the image of an international Capital now destined to permanently host great events,” Colella concluded, emphasizing the event’s potential to further elevate Naples’ international profile.
The half marathon is expected to be a highlight of the city’s sporting calendar, attracting both professional athletes and amateur runners, all eager to experience the unique combination of competitive sport and scenic beauty that Naples offers.
Bagnoli Takes Center Stage with Coppa Nisida and Special Olympics Rowing Meeting
In addition to the half marathon, Councillor Colella also participated in the presentation conference for the 27th Coppa Nisida and the National Special Olympics Rowing Meeting. These events will be hosted by the ILVA Club of Bagnoli from February 20 to 22, further underscoring Naples’ commitment to inclusive sports and urban regeneration.
Colella emphasized the renewed importance of Bagnoli, a district undergoing significant revitalization. “Bagnoli returns to being central. And not only in view of the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup, in the year of Naples European Capital of Sport 2026. Furthermore, the pioneering and innovative project ‘The sea for different abilities’ restores centrality to a wonderful place that deserves to be relaunched through sport, paying particular attention to the theme of accessibility and the fragilities of those who daily deal with impediments and architectural barriers. The sea of Bagnoli represents a precious resource for the community and the efforts of the Manfredi Administration go in this direction,” he stated.
The inclusion of the Special Olympics Rowing Meeting highlights Naples’ dedication to creating accessible sporting opportunities for all, fostering a more inclusive community through the power of sport. The revitalization of Bagnoli, coupled with these significant sporting events, marks a new chapter for the district, positioning it as a vibrant hub for both local residents and international visitors.
The series of events planned for 2026, particularly the European City of Sport designation, are expected to bring considerable economic and social benefits to Naples, reinforcing its image as a dynamic and welcoming city on the global stage.
Source: https://www.positanonotizie.it/it/sport-21/ben-10mila-runner-per-la-napoli-city-half-marathon-168864/article
