The Adnoc Abu Dhabi Marathon, scheduled for December 11, has been postponed until 2021 because of the coronavirus.
Following discussions between the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and the sponsors, the third edition of the race will be staged next year for the safety of runners, spectators, volunteers, staff and the partners and communities that support the event.
Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary General of ADSC, said implementing safety standards and precautionary measures in every event staged in the capital city was their utmost priority.
"With such an overwhelming response, both within the UAE and the region, the sports council is looking forward to organising this event on the popularity of this event on another date during next year," he said.
"We are deeply committed to implementing the highest safety standards and precautionary measures in all global and community sporting events held in Abu Dhabi. This is based on the instructions of the competent government agencies emphasising great attention to the safety and health of everyone.
"Under its exceptional efforts in managing the optimal handling of the crisis and with the joint coordination with all concerned parties led us to postpone the third edition of the Adnoc Abu Dhabi Marathon from December 2020 to 2021, in the context of ensuring the safety of everyone.
"We now look forward to welcoming all participants and unite with the solidarity and support of each other in overcoming these unfavourable times."
Thousands of runners have already signed up to compete in the UAE capital's sporting event but due to the evolving situation relating to the global pandemic of Covid-19, the public’s health and safety remains the top priority of the organisers.
The organisers are currently working through a process to deliver the marathon on a new scheduled date. Registered runners will receive updates via email and announcements will be communicated via the official website adnocabudhabimarathon.com and social media channels.
