Great North Run 2026 medal design revealed
The medal for this year's Great North Run's been unveiled today - as the iconic half marathon fast approaches
The medal for this year's Great North Run's been unveiled today - as the iconic half marathon fast approaches.
With the 45th edition of the AJ Bell Great North Run on Sunday 13 September fast approaching, organisers of the world’s greatest half marathon revealed the coveted 2026 finisher medal in style this morning with the unveiling of a second art installation at Grey’s Monument.
This year will see 63,000 runners take part and the biggest ever Great North Run deserves the biggest ever medal.
Designed by Newcastle’s very own street artist Mul, the artwork covers the four sides of the base of the Monument, with a 2.5 metre replica medal taking centre stage. In the same style as the recently unveiled mural on the Quayside, the Medal installation will be in place until after the Great North Run weekend, providing the perfect selfie backdrop for those coming to the city to enjoy the annual festival of running.
Mul’s (Alex Mulholland) Running Heart character which is central to many of his dynamic compositions has become integral to this year’s unique GNR45 identity. His Quayside mural also included the iconic Tyne Bridge landmark, which alongside the Running Heart adorns the front of the unique 2026 finishers medal.
Sir Brendan Foster added, “The Great North Run is about regional pride, ordinary people doing extraordinary things, and about our shared love of the region. Since the first event in 1981, we’ve seen countless special moments and incredible feats, so we had to celebrate the 45th anniversary in style.
"What better way than with a giant medal that everyone can enjoy, right in the heart of the city at probably one of the most famous meeting points. As the city comes alive across the Great North Run weekend, I can’t wait to see people’s reaction to this rather unique piece of art!”
“This year’s medal represents the beating hearts of everyone taking part in the 45th edition of the Great North Run." said Mul.
"It’s been a privilege to put my own spin on the iconic Tyne Bridge, a landmark that has become synonymous with this legendary event. The design celebrates every person taking part, the stories behind each runner, and the incredible causes that inspire so many people to take on the Great North Run.”
The event will feature some of the world’s leading athletes competing at the front in the elite Men’s, Women’s and Wheelchair athlete races, before 63,000 runners take on the 13.1 mile course from city to sea, spurred on by over 200,000 spectators lining the streets in support as the region comes together.
The weekend of running will kick start with the AJ Bell Great North Run 5K race on Friday 11th September, and what will be the 40th edition of the Junior and Mini events on Saturday 12th September.
Last year's medal, and t-shirt caused some controversy - featuring designs of the River Wear and Sunderland, rather than the Tyne!