The Great North Run 2026 kicks off its 45th year with a vibrant new visual identity—and this time, it’s homegrown. Organisers have partnered with Newcastle street artist Mul (Alex Mulholland) to create a unique look for the race, which returns on Sunday, 13 September.
Mul has transformed cityscapes across Newcastle and Gateshead with his bold, large-scale murals. His art brings energy, colour, and joy to walls, sidewalks, and even lamp posts. Now, his signature “Running Heart” character will take center stage in the Great North Run 2026.
Specifically, the Running Heart will feature prominently on the official finisher’s t-shirt and medal. Moreover, it perfectly captures the race’s emotional core: freedom, community, and personal meaning. Mul drew inspiration from Candi Staton’s song Young Hearts Run Free. “It reflects the sense of freedom and togetherness that defines The Great North Run,” he said.
Sir Brendan Foster, the event’s founder and president, enthusiastically endorsed the collaboration. “The Great North Run has always been a celebration of the North East,” he explained. “We’re delighted to work with Mul this year.” He added that the partnership makes perfect sense—not just because Mul is local, but because both the artist and the race aim to be inclusive and uplifting.
Furthermore, Foster noted that tens of thousands of runners take part for deeply personal reasons. Some run to honour loved ones. Others raise money for charity, improve their health, or simply enjoy the thrill of the course. “Mul’s Running Heart embodies all of that,” he said. “I can’t wait to see his take on our iconic event.”
First held on 28 June 1981, this year marks the 45th edition of the world’s biggest half marathon. On race day, elite athletes will launch the event in the Men’s, Women’s, and Wheelchair races. Immediately afterward, around 60,000 everyday runners will follow the 13.1-mile route from Newcastle to South Shields.
Crowds of more than 200,000 spectators will line the streets to cheer them on. Meanwhile, the BBC will broadcast the event live across the UK and to over 170 countries worldwide.
If you want to join the action, act fast. The January Ballot opens for just one week—from Monday, 5 January to Sunday, 11 January. Since spots fill quickly, organisers encourage runners to sign up early for a notification email.
Thanks to Mul’s energetic vision, the Great North Run 2026 will be more than a race. It will be a moving canvas of community spirit, local pride, and heartfelt purpose—every stride echoing the beat of the Running Heart.
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