BYD takes over Standard Chartered as SG Marathon title sponsor

Singapore’s national marathon is entering a new era, with BYD replacing Standard Chartered as title partner in a major shift for the event.

The race will now be known as the BYD Singapore International Marathon, with adidas joining as presenting sponsor. Standard Chartered will remain involved as the official bank.

The 2026 edition will also introduce naming rights across race categories, including the BYD Marathon, adidas Half Marathon and Standard Chartered 10km. The BYD Marathon remains Southeast Asia’s only World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, with all other categories AIMS-certified.

The move signals a broader repositioning of the event, as organisers look to elevate its global profile while building deeper brand integration across the race experience.

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A key change this year is a cap on participation, with entries limited to 52,000 runners, down from around 55,000 last year, as organisers prioritise race quality and experience. Registration opens in April, and the three-day race weekend (4-6 December) will features kids categories, 5km and 10km races, the half marathon and the full marathon finale.

Shalindran Sathiyanesan, event director of the BYD Singapore International Marathon presented by adidas, said the shift reflects a focus on delivering a more holistic event.

“Beyond that, we are focused on building a total brand experience. This will incorporate local SMEs, running communities, and collaborations with international brands. At the same time, we aim to showcase Singapore’s unique local culture, while delivering a globally recognised world-class event," Sathiyanesan said. 

As presenting sponsor, adidas will also expand its involvement through event merchandise and official race apparel.

The range includes head-to-toe looks for men and women, and the Adizero Boston 13 and Evo SL footwear in the exclusive BYD Singapore International Marathon presented by adidas colourways.

The sportswear brand will also provide the official race t-shirt that comes with every race pack for participants

“adidas is proud to be the first‑ever presenting sponsor of Singapore’s national marathon, a natural next step in our long-standing commitment to supporting the running community. As we deepen our involvement, we are excited to help shape Singapore’s evolution into a true running city that inspires runners of all levels to cross the finish line stronger," said Chen Rui Yuan, country manager of adidas Singapore. 

Event organiser SG International Marathon is adopting a year-round approach to the marathon, emphasising structured training, community engagement and a thoughtfully managed race environment.

Participation has steadily increased over the past three editions, with the full marathon seeing a 31% growth and the half marathon a 46% rise, according to CNA.

In 2022, the race was relaunched under a new title sponsor and officially named the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon. The relaunch also introduced a refreshed logo featuring two of Singapore’s most iconic symbols: the Merlion and the Orchid.

The Merlion represents the event’s identity as a city marathon, while the Orchid, a symbol of hardiness and resilience, reflects the Singapore spirit. The logo has been prominently featured across all branding, including race singlets, marketing materials, and event signage.

Photo courtesy of BYD Singapore International Marathon presented by adidas.

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