2026 Shanghai Tower Towerrunning Challenge returns with team relay revival

The 2026 Shanghai Tower Towerrunning Challenge will run from Nov 28 to 29 with 3,000 participants, organizers announced Wednesday at China's tallest building. The team relay category returns after a multi-year break, alongside a new humanistic initiative that broadens the event beyond pure competition.

The three-category lineup features the individual race and team relay on Nov 28, followed by a fun run on Nov 29. Aid stations and medical support will cover the full course, relay points, and finish line.

A new "100 Ascenders" program will document the training and race-day stories of 100 ordinary participants, with a themed exhibition to debut for the event's 10th anniversary.

Global sportswear brand ASICS has joined as an official partner, providing gear and on-site support for the 3,398-step climb. A sports carnival will also run from Nov 23 to 29 at the 546-meter-high observation deck, offering discounted tickets for spectators to watch the live broadcast and join interactive activities.

The top three trophies for the individual full race were co-designed with Italy's Valdobbiadene, featuring a "V" shape symbolizing victory and upward growth, and highlighting international cultural exchange.

"The power of the ascent is very clear: it has nothing to do with getting up there — the 119th floor — it is about the human quest for improvement," event ambassador Juan Antonio Samaranch, vice-president of the International Olympic Committee and founder of the Samaranch Foundation, said via video. He added that the upgraded event will uphold the Olympic spirit of perseverance and excellence.

Launched in 2017, the challenge is the world's leading towerrunning event in scale, ranking points, and venue height, with top-level Towerrunning World Association certification.