World Cup 2026 Run

Feel the passion. Embrace the global energy. Run your own World Cup story.

Step into the excitement of football’s biggest global celebration with the World Cup 2026 Virtual Run — an unforgettable virtual challenge where sport, community and personal achievement collide. Inspired by the tournament that unites nations, this event gives you the chance to bring World Cup atmosphere to your own streets, parks, treadmills or trails — wherever you are in the world.

Taking place between 11 June and 19 July 2026, this flexible any-distance challenge is designed for absolutely everyone. Whether you’re chasing a new PB, getting back into fitness, walking your first 5K, or running marathon miles for your team, you choose your distance, your route and your pace. No travel. No pressure. Just pure motivation and global sporting spirit.

This is more than just a run — it’s your chance to:

Celebrate the World Cup in your own unique way

Join a worldwide community of runners, walkers and football fans

Set a personal goal and train with purpose

Stay active and motivated during the tournament

Earn an epic, World Cup-inspired medal delivered straight to your door

Run solo for focus and wellbeing, or build your own “nation squad” with friends, family, colleagues or teammates and take on the challenge together. However you complete it, every mile becomes part of the global celebration.

Simply sign up, choose your distance (5K, 10K, half marathon, marathon or your own custom target), complete your activity anytime during the event window, submit your proof, and get ready to celebrate your finish like a champion.

If you love football. If you love running. If you love setting goals and achieving something special — this is your moment.

The world is watching. The challenge is yours.

WHAT’S INVOLVED?
Run, walk or jog any distance, anywhere, at any pace, anytime during the World Cup football tournament - from 11th June until 19th July 2026.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE CHALLENGE?
Once you have completed your challenge, simply go to our website and upload a screenshot of your activity on our secure submission form https://the-running-bug.com/submit-your-evidence/

Once your evidence has been sent, you should be redirected to a confirmation page. Then that's it!

HOW DO VIRTUAL RACES WORK?

Participating is simple:
- Register: Sign up for the this exclusive virtual challenge.
- Run, Jog, or Walk: Complete the race at your chosen location and pace.
- Submit Your Evidence: After completing the race, upload your activity data or a screenshot from your fitness tracker to our submission page.
- Receive Your Medal: Once we've verified your submission, we'll send your beautiful medal directly to your doorstep.

WHY CHOOSE A VIRTUAL RACE?

Virtual races offer unparalleled flexibility and convenience. We're one of the UK's favourite virtual running platforms with over 5 years experience. Here's why they might be the perfect fit for you. We're one of the UK's favourite virtual running platforms with over 5 years experience.

- Run on Your Schedule: Complete the race at a time and location that suits you. No need to adhere to strict start times or travel to specific locations.

- Choose Your Own Course: Whether it's a favourite trail, your local neighbourhood, or even indoors on a treadmill, you have the freedom to select your ideal running environment.

- Cost-Effective: Save on travel and accommodation expenses associated with traditional races. Virtual races often come with lower entry fees, making them a budget-friendly option.

- Personalised Experience: Tailor the race to your preferences, from selecting your route to setting your own pace, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

- Stay Motivated: Setting a specific goal, like the running a virtual race, can boost your motivation and keep you committed to your fitness journey.