Pakistani runners pose for a gaggle picture forward of London Marathon 2026. — reporter
KARACHI: A powerful contingent of Pakistani runners, each from throughout the nation and throughout the diaspora, is ready to function within the forty sixth version of the London Marathon on Sunday, one of many world’s most prestigious long-distance races and a part of the elite Abbott World Marathon Majors circuit.
Greater than 50,000 runners from throughout the globe are anticipated to take part within the iconic 42.195km run, which winds by way of central London, passing historic landmarks and drawing huge roadside crowds. Broadly considered probably the most vibrant and inclusive marathons, the London Marathon can also be a world chief in charity fundraising, having raised over £1 billion since its inception.
This yr, 18 Pakistani runners, together with athletes based mostly in Pakistan and expatriates from the UK, United States, Denmark, Norway, Austria, and the UAE, will participate, reflecting the rising footprint of Pakistani endurance runners on the worldwide stage. The group consists of 16 male and two feminine contributors, with three Six Star finishers amongst them — a distinction awarded to those that full all six World Marathon Majors.
From left to proper Zeeshan Rab, Sara Lodhi, and Rehan Gandhi. — Reporter
Amongst Pakistani contributors, one title is UAE-based Sarah Lodhi, the winner of the Karachi Marathon 2025, who returns to London for her twelfth profession marathon. Having beforehand competed right here, Lodhi described the expertise as unmatched.
“Representing Pakistan on such a prestigious international platform is a tremendous honour,” she stated. “London is an incredible city, and this marathon stands out as one of the most vibrant and lively among the world’s major races. I feel truly humbled and grateful for this opportunity.”
Karachi’s Amin Mukaty enters the race in peak situation after an intense coaching block, overlaying 180 kilometres over the previous two weeks. He’s concentrating on a robust end regardless of unsure race-day circumstances.
“I am aiming to finish somewhere between 2:45 and 2:50,” Mukaty stated. “There’s no pressure for a personal best because the weather here is not ideal at the moment, but my long-term goal is to earn all seven stars and complete these races under three hours.”
Seasoned marathoner Adnan Gandhi, additionally from Karachi, can be working his second consecutive London Marathon and eleventh World Main total. A Six Star finisher, Gandhi continues to mix sport with philanthropy, this yr elevating funds for the British Asian Belief to help psychological well being and youth employment initiatives in Pakistan.
Having beforehand supported flood reduction efforts by way of The Residents Basis, Gandhi stated working for a trigger has remained central to his journey, alongside his affiliation with Particular Olympics Pakistan and efforts to advertise endurance working within the nation.
His spouse, Hira Diwan Gandhi, additionally a Six Star finisher, will line up alongside him in what can be her 18th marathon. The couple, who earned their Six Star medals collectively on the Boston Marathon final yr, regard London because the standout race on the worldwide circuit. Hira can be working the London Marathon for the sixth time.
Denmark-based Zeeshan Rab brings outstanding consistency, competing in his fifty fifth marathon total and eighth of the yr, whereas runners from the UK, US and Europe spotlight the widespread presence of the Pakistani diaspora in endurance sports activities.
With a mixture of skilled Six Star finishers, first-time contributors and runners competing for private milestones and charitable causes, the Pakistani contingent is ready so as to add depth and variety to an occasion that continues to encourage tens of millions worldwide.
Pakistani contributors: London Marathon 2026 (April 26):
3. Adnan Gandhi (Karachi) – Six-Star finisher
4. Hira Diwan Gandhi (UK) – Six-Star finisher
5. Qamar Zia (USA)
6. Ahmer Khan (Austria)
7. Naveed Hussain (USA)
8. Amin Mukaty (Karachi)
9. Faisal Shafi (Lahore)
10. Zeeshan Rab (Denmark)
11. Abdullah Athar (UK)
12. Araf Mohammed (UK)
13. Javed Hussain (UK)
14. Adam Mohammed (UK)
15. Wasim Akhtar (UK)
16. Adil Ali (UK)
17. Imran Ghayur Ahmed (Norway)
18. Yusaf Hassan (UK)
