Thousands of participants are expected to sign up and take the 13th edition of the Wings for Life World Run to new heights, with 100% of all entry fees and donations funding vital research and clinical trials to find a cure for spinal cord injury.
Image: Supplied
Following a record-breaking year, the world’s largest running event has officially opened registration for its 2026 Flagship Runs and App Runs.
Thousands of participants are expected to take the 13th edition of the Wings for Life World Run to new heights in May, with 100% of all entry fees and donations funding vital research and clinical trials to find a cure for spinal cord injury.
“Worldwide, millions of people are dependent on a wheelchair after having sustained a spinal cord injury, most often as the result of a traffic accident or a fall,” organisers said, adding Wings for Life is a not-for-profit research foundation with the single mission to find a cure for spinal cord injury.
Since 2004, Wings for Life has funded life-changing research projects and clinical trials around the globe.
The Wings for Life World Run returns in May, uniting participants from across the globe for a good cause.
Image: Red Bull Content Poll
Inclusive by design, the event unites participants across all levels of experience and ability. First-timers, professional athletes, passionate amateurs, Olympians and ambassadors alike can walk, run or roll side by side, all for a single mission: a future where spinal cord injury no longer means a lifetime of limitation.
All participants start at the same time worldwide and run either individually with the Wings for Life World Run App or together in several Flagship Runs. There is no traditional finish line. Instead, 30 minutes after the start, either a virtual or – in the case of the Flagship Runs – a real Catcher Car picks up the chase and overtakes one runner after another. Results aren’t measured in time but in distance achieved.
Last year saw 310 719 participants from around the world taking part in the run, showing the global scale and spirit of the movement.
The Wings for Life World Run also expanded its South African footprint last year with Gqeberha joining the line-up for the first time. Adding to the excitement, Springbok captain Siya Kolisi made a special appearance at the Gqeberha run, inspiring participants with his presence and powerful message of resilience and unity.
"As the world prepares for the 2026 edition, the Wings for Life World Run continues to grow stronger proving that when people come together for a purpose, incredible things happen," organisers said.
Registration for the 2026 Wings for Life World Run – including numerous App Run Events, all Flagship Runs and running individually with the Wings for Life World Run App are currently open. For more information visit: www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com.