SBS has signed a two-year broadcast partnership with the TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS, securing exclusive free-to-air live coverage of the event for Australian audiences.
The 2026 TCS Sydney Marathon will be broadcast live and free on Sunday, 30 August, from 6.00am AEST on SBS and SBS On Demand. Highlights will also be available for catch-up on SBS On Demand after the event.
The agreement gives SBS coverage of Australia’s largest marathon across 2026 and 2027. The event is the only Abbott World Marathon Majors race held in the Southern Hemisphere.
What the deal covers
The TCS Sydney Marathon attracts elite athletes and everyday runners from 117 countries. The 42km course begins in North Sydney, crosses the Sydney Harbour Bridge, moves through the city, and finishes at the Sydney Opera House.
The event has grown into one of Australia’s major sporting events, combining elite competition with mass participation. It is supported by the NSW Government through Destination NSW, owned by Athletics Australia, and managed by Pont3.
Ken Shipp, SBS Director of Sport, said the broadcaster was “proud to bring it to Australians live and free on SBS.”
“As the only Abbott World Marathon Major in the Southern Hemisphere, it now sits alongside the most iconic distance races in the world,” Shipp said.
“But what makes this event special is the mix of elite competition, personal achievement and community spirit that plays out across the streets of Sydney.
“SBS is the natural home for an event that reflects modern Australia, bringing together people from all backgrounds through a shared passion for sport. We look forward to sharing every moment with Australians in 2026 and 2027.”
Race director welcomes SBS return
Wayne Larden, TCS Sydney Marathon Race Director, said SBS’ reach and approach to diverse audiences aligned with the event.
“We are delighted to welcome SBS back as our official broadcast partner for the next two years,” Larden said.
“SBS has an extraordinary track record of bringing world-class sporting events to the Australian public, and their commitment to reflecting the diversity of this nation mirrors everything the TCS Sydney Marathon stands for.
“From elite champions chasing podium glory to first-time finishers crossing the line with their families cheering, SBS will tell the full story of a race that truly reflects modern Australia.”
Larden said the partnership, alongside international broadcast distribution, would showcase both the event and Sydney to global audiences.
SBS highlights reach and accessibility
SBS said its audience reach was a key part of the partnership. The broadcaster connects with almost 13 million Australians each month and broadcasts in more than 60 languages.
The TCS Sydney Marathon includes elite competitors, charity runners, volunteers, families and first-time participants, with SBS positioning the event as a broad community sports broadcast.
For more information about the event, visit tcssydneymarathon.com.