₹262.43-Crore Socio-Economic Health Impact Underscores the World’s Premier 10K as Registrations Open with #EndendiguBengaluru
Bengaluru, NFAPost: The city’s most anticipated sporting celebration is back. Procam International has announced that the 18th edition of the World Athletics Gold Label Road Race—the Tata Consultancy Services World 10K Bengaluru (TCS World 10K)—will take place on Sunday, 26 April 2026, reaffirming its stature as the world’s premier 10K.
For nearly two decades, the race has evolved beyond competition into a powerful civic movement—blending elite sport, mass participation, philanthropy, and measurable socio-economic impact. Registrations for both the on-ground and virtual editions open at 7:00 am on Friday, 13 February 2026.
With a total prize purse of USD 210,000, the race continues to attract elite international athletes while nurturing Bengaluru’s ever-expanding community of amateur runners. This year, in a first aimed at enhancing safety and competitiveness, entries for the Open 10K category will be accepted only from participants who submit a valid timing certificate as per qualification norms.
A Race That Powers a City
The 2025 Social-Health-Economic Impact Report, prepared by Procam International in collaboration with the Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Bengaluru, quantifies what many in the city have long felt: the race is an economic and social engine.
The total socio-economic health impact for the 2025 edition stood at an impressive ₹262.43 crore.
Economic Impact
- ₹179.91 crore spent by runners on training, shoes, apparel, technology, food, and accommodation
- ₹78.69 crore invested in nutrition and preventive healthcare
- 85.45% adoption of tech-enabled fitness solutions
- 40% contribution toward broader ecosystem growth
Health Impact
- 54.21% run for better health
- 70.12% undergo full-body check-ups
- 53.07% report improved mental well-being
- 22.5% report reduced medication use
- 85% incorporate strength training
- 47.94% use exercise to manage stress
Social & Sustainability Impact
- ₹3.83 crore raised for philanthropy
- 75 NGOs supported across 12 themes
- 15 fundraisers under 18 raised over ₹28 lakh
- Bronze Level Sustainability Certification by World Athletics
- Zero waste to landfill (7,126 kg diverted)
- 13,248 kg of CO₂ emissions avoided
The event joins the ranks of globally respected races such as the Boston Marathon and the Berlin Marathon in earning sustainability distinction.
“A Movement Rooted in Purpose”
Mr. Sunil Deshpande, Regional Head, TCS Bengaluru, said:
“The TCS World 10K Bengaluru continues to showcase the city’s drive to exceed expectations and come together for a larger purpose. It has grown into a celebrated community event rooted in fitness, inclusion, and meaningful causes. The run generates positive socioeconomic impact—from preventive health to philanthropy. At TCS, we are proud to stand behind a platform that channels collective energy toward social good.”
The race will be flagged off from Cubbon Road (opposite RSAOI Gate No. 5), with the finish line outside the Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw Parade Ground—turning central Bengaluru into a festival of endurance.
Government and Institutional Backing
Mr. Rajendra Kataria, IAS, Principal Secretary, Government of Karnataka, described the race as integral to “Brand Bengaluru.”
“People prepare for it with excitement, and the city has built a strong running culture around this event. The Government of Karnataka will continue its support. With Bengaluru’s pleasant weather creating ideal conditions, we are confident this will be another great edition.”
Major General V.T. Mathew AVSM, YSM, General Officer Commanding Karnataka & Kerala Sub-Area, added:
“This event reflects what we stand for—fitness, discipline and routine. Running teaches you to stay focused and take one step at a time.”
Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh highlighted the city’s preparedness:
“Bengaluru has been rated among the safest metros in India. It is heartening to see the significant social and economic impact of the TCS World 10K.”
New Partnerships, Expanded Vision
This year sees AMARON, the flagship brand of Amara Raja Energy & Mobility, join as the “Powered By” partner.
Chandrasekar (Chandru) Radhakrishnan, Chief Business Officer, said:
“Endurance races celebrate quiet strength and consistency. Through this partnership, we honour the resolve to keep going—kilometre after kilometre.”
United Way Bengaluru comes on board as Philanthropy Partner, strengthening fundraising efforts.
Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru, remarked:
“Every runner’s passion fuels purpose. Together, we turn participation into lasting impact.”
Energy drink giant Red Bull also joins the movement, further amplifying the race’s global sporting profile.
The popular Run In Costume (RIC) category will now extend across all race segments, encouraging creativity under the banner “Express Yourself,” with cash prizes for individual and group winners.
Meanwhile, Japanese performance brand ASICS will award exclusive Finisher Tees to the top 1,500 male and female finishers in the Open 10K.
“A Transformative Platform”
Vivek Singh, Joint MD, Procam International, reflected on the milestone:
“The registration launch of the 18th edition is a humbling moment. Over the years, this race has demonstrated the transformative power of sport, delivering a socio-economic and health impact valued at ₹262.43 crore for the 2025 edition alone.”
He added:
“We are deeply grateful to the Government of Karnataka, our sponsors, and the running community. Your commitment has shaped this race into a landmark event whose legacy grows stronger every year.”
Registration Details
On-ground Categories:
- Open 10K
- Majja Run (4.2 km)
- Senior Citizens Run
- Champions with Disability (3 km)
Registrations open 13 February 2026 at 7:00 am and close 20 March 2026, or earlier if filled.
Virtual Run:
- Virtual 10K
- Virtual 5K
Virtual registrations close 20 April 2026.
The “Advantage Virtual” feature allows select virtual finishers to secure guaranteed paid entries into the 2027 on-ground race, subject to rules.
With continued support from the Government of Karnataka, Athletics Federation of India, World Athletics, and global partners, the Tata Consultancy Services World 10K Bengaluru stands as more than a race.
It is a mirror to Bengaluru’s spirit—resilient, generous, forward-looking.
On 26 April 2026, when thousands gather at the crack of dawn on Cubbon Road, it will not merely be about crossing a finish line.
It will be about celebrating a city that runs together—#EndendiguBengaluru.
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