Record Participation Expected at TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2026

The TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2026 is gearing up for an impressive turnout of over 35,000 participants, both in-person and virtually. This prestigious race, known for its elite field and vibrant atmosphere, will feature top athletes like Uganda's Harbert Kibet and India's Abhishek Pal. Participants will receive a unique keepsake passport, enhancing their running experience. With strong competition expected in both men's and women's categories, this event promises to be a highlight in the running calendar. Discover more about the elite competitors and the exciting features of this year's race.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 18, 2026, 16:30 IST

Overview of the Event

The 18th edition of the TCS World 10K Bengaluru is anticipated to attract over 35,000 participants for both in-person and virtual races on Sunday, April 26. This event continues to symbolize the vibrant spirit of Bengaluru, as highlighted by the campaign #EndendiguBengaluru.

Elite Competitors and Unique Experience

With a total prize pool of USD 210,000, this World Athletics Gold Label Race will showcase a competitive elite field, including Uganda's Harbert Kibet and defending champion Sarah Chelangat. Indian athletes such as Abhishek Pal, the defending champion and event record holder, and Sanjivani Jadhav will also participate, all set against the scenic backdrop of Bengaluru. The event will be inaugurated by World Champion and Olympic medallist Blanka Vlasic, serving as the International Event Ambassador.

Participants will receive a specially crafted passport at the Expo, which will serve as a personal keepsake throughout the running season. After completing their race, runners will earn a unique stamp for each distance, with the World 10K in Bengaluru featuring a signature color stamp. This passport will evolve into a treasured memorabilia, documenting milestones and achievements, similar to a personal running logbook.

Men's Elite Field

The men's race will be led by defending champion Abhishek Pal, alongside Kiran Matre, who recently secured second place among Indians at the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon 2025 with a time of 1:04:57 and finished third at the World 10K Bengaluru 2025 in 30:01. National Marathon Champion Dr. Kartik Karkera, who debuted with a winning time of 2:19:55 at the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2026, will also be in the lineup.

Women's Elite Field

The Indian women's elite field will include defending champion Sanjivani Jadhav, who has a personal best of 34:02 in the 10K, achieved at the World 10K Bengaluru 2024. She has consistently performed well in domestic road races, winning the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2026 on her debut and previously taking the title at the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata 2024 with a time of 1:29:12. She will face tough competition from Lili Das, who has a personal best of 34:13 in the 10K and is a national champion in the 1500m. Das also won the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon 2024 and was the runner-up at the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata 2024.