Pakistan’s top marathon runners will compete on one of the world’s biggest stages after BYD–Mega Motor Company (MMC) announced sponsorship for the winners of the BYD Karachi Marathon to participate in the London Marathon 2026, marking a major milestone for long-distance running in the country.
The announcement was made during the closing ceremony of the BYD Karachi Marathon, which attracted more than 7,000 runners from across Pakistan and over 120 international athletes from 25 countries, underscoring the event’s growing global recognition.
Champions crowned at Pakistan’s first certified marathon
The men’s title was claimed by Israr Khattak, who completed the race in 2 hours and 39 minutes, while Sara Lodhi secured the women’s title with a time of 3 hours and 33 minutes.
Both athletes emerged as champions of Pakistan’s first World Athletics–certified long-distance marathon, a landmark achievement for the country’s athletics community.
Cash prizes were awarded to top finishers, with PKR 500,000 for first place, PKR 250,000 for second, and PKR 125,000 for third in both men’s and women’s categories.
Corporate backing and global opportunity
Speaking at the event, Danish Khaliq, Vice President Sales & Strategy at BYD Pakistan–MMC, described the marathon as a moment of national pride, saying Karachi is increasingly being recognized alongside international running destinations.
He added that BYD’s commitment to sustainability aligns with the values of endurance sports and that supporting athletes on global platforms reflects the company’s long-term vision for Pakistan.
Building Pakistan’s running ecosystem
Race Director Shoaib Nizami, CEO of Sports in Pakistan, credited BYD’s involvement with elevating the event’s scale and reach.
He noted that BYD’s engagement—through community runs, digital campaigns, and dealership-based activations—helped bring together runners and supporters nationwide, strengthening Pakistan’s emerging distance-running culture.
Looking ahead to Olympic ambitions
MMC said its partnership with the Karachi Marathon builds on its broader involvement in Pakistani sports, including previous collaborations such as the Pakistan Super League.
Aligned with Vision 2032, an initiative aimed at preparing Pakistani athletes for international and Olympic qualification, the company said it hopes to inspire young runners to pursue competitive athletics and believe that global success is within reach.
Also read: Noor Zaman Clinches CAS–Serena Hotels International Squash Championship 2025 Title
