The VnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh City Midnight 2026 has implemented significant adjustments to its start times and routes, aiming to provide a smoother experience for its record 13,000 participants. While the 10km distance retains its start time from last year, the other three distances—5km, 42km, and 21km—have been delayed.

"This arrangement allows 10km athletes to cross Ba Son bridge first, ensuring Ton Duc Thang street is clearer for 5km athletes. The plan also helps prevent confusion at the turn onto Ba Son bridge, a junction that saw crowding in previous seasons," explained Duong Hai Anh, Race Director of the VnExpress Marathon system.

The optimized start schedule allows short-distance athletes to compete earlier, enabling them to better manage rest and participate in side activities without staying up too late.

The 42km start time was delayed to prevent the final group of 5km runners from coinciding with the leading marathoners. In the revised plan, the 5km course proceeds straight along Ton Duc Thang and Nguyen Huu Canh streets to the finish, while the 42km course turns towards Vo Nguyen Giap street, reducing the likelihood of early route intersections.

"The leading 42km group comprises athletes pursuing competitive times. They need ample, unobstructed space to optimize their speed. Conversely, the 5km group is typically large. If they share the same route at the same time, conflicts could easily arise," Duong Hai Anh added.

Athletes participating in the Ho Chi Minh City night race last year. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Beyond start times, specific sections of the course were also modified to accommodate the high number of participants. For the 21km distance, the turnaround point has been moved over Ba Son bridge and extended to Nguyen Co Thach street. This riverside section offers a wide road surface with minimal intersections, providing a more favorable racing environment for leading athletes.

The previous 42km turnaround point in Cat Lai ward, on Nguyen Van Kinh street, was deemed quite narrow. This year, organizers have also adjusted the route plan to address this issue.

Another significant improvement concerns lighting conditions. The route passing through Sala urban area in An Khanh ward now features an upgraded lighting system, connected to the main power grid along the entire section. In previous years, this area relied on generators for supplementary lighting. According to Duong Hai Anh, a stable power supply ensures maximum visibility for athletes and contributes to smoother event organization.

Runners pick up bibs at the new expo area. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

In addition to the course adjustments, the expo and bib collection area for this year's race has been relocated. Instead of Hoa Lu stadium or Nguyen Du gymnasium, as in previous seasons, organizers selected an area on Tran Bach Dang street, An Khanh ward, Thu Duc City.

The organizing committee states it is collaborating with the Department of Culture and Sports and the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee to develop the VnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh City Midnight into a prominent sports event. Consequently, every change, no matter how minor, serves this overarching objective.

"The night race is expected to showcase Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant lifestyle and boost its night economy. The midnight start format offers a distinctive experience for athletes, while also alleviating traffic pressure in the city center," a representative of the organizing committee stated.

Lan Anh