Here's what to know ahead of the 2026 SF Marathon

Dryden Quigley Image
Sunday, July 26, 2026 6:31AM
Here's what to know ahead of the SF Marathon
More than 30,000 people are preparing for the 49th San Francisco Marathon on Sunday.

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- More than 30,000 people are preparing for the 49th San Francisco Marathon on Sunday, an event that takes runners past some of the city's most iconic sights while also bringing widespread road closures and transportation disruptions.

For residents who are not taking part in the marathon, getting around the city may be more challenging. More than 30 streets will be closed beginning at 9 p.m. Saturday.

Officials say roads will reopen as different portions of the race conclude, with the final closure ending at 3 p.m. on Sunday.

For those traveling around the city Sunday, walking, biking, using scooters and taking Muni are expected to be the fastest options.

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However, some Muni routes will be rerouted, and riders are encouraged to check service information before traveling. "We're going to wake up at dawn and try and, get to as many of the viewpoints as possible to cheer folks on," spectator Claire Sullivan said.

The marathon comes after concerns about how Waymo vehicles operate during large events following issues reported during Fourth of July festivities.

Waymo previously said it was learning from that experience and that part of the problem stemmed from being unaware of a road closure.

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The company did not respond to a request for comment about preparations for Sunday's marathon.

"My husband did the Oakland Marathon, and we learned our lesson about trying to drive around town during a marathon.

That time. So we're going to rely entirely on foot transit and, public transit," Sullivan said.

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