A street artist is teaming up with organisers to give The Great North Run a special new look.
Newcastle artist Mul—real name Alex Mulholland—will create a fresh design for the 2026 AJ Bell Great North Run, the world’s biggest half marathon, which will take place on Sunday, September 13.
Mul is best known for his vibrant outdoor murals and his Running Heart character, which will feature prominently in the 2026 branding.
Sir Brendan Foster, founder and president of the Great North Run, said: "The Great North Run has always been a real celebration of the North East so we’re delighted to be collaborating with Mul this year.
"There were too many synergies to ignore beyond the obvious local connection.
"Mul’s artwork on the streets, just like our running event, is designed to be accessible to everyone for them to enjoy.
"In addition, his Running Heart embodies our event in so many ways.
"Every year tens of thousands of people run to raise money for many great causes, in memory of loved ones, to get healthier or purely for the love of running.
"I can’t wait to see Mul put his own take on our iconic event this year."
The Running Heart design will appear on the official finisher’s t-shirt and medal in 2026.
Mul said: "It’s a true honour to have been invited by The Great Run team to contribute to the legacy of such an iconic North East institution.
"To know my artwork will form part of The Great North Run’s history is a genuine bucket-list moment and something as an artist, I’m very proud of.
"Inspired by the song Young Hearts Run Free by Candi Staton, my heart character reflects the sense of freedom and togetherness that defines The Great North Run."
First held on June 28, 1981, this year marks the 45th running of the AJ Bell Great North Run.
The event will once again be broadcast live on BBC One in the UK and shown in more than 170 countries worldwide.
Some of the world’s top athletes will take part in the elite men’s, women’s, and wheelchair races.
They will be followed by 60,000 runners taking on the 13.1-mile route from city to sea.
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An estimated over 200,000 spectators are expected to line the streets in support.
Those hoping to take part in the 2026 event can enter the January Ballot.
It will be open for one week from Monday, January 5 to Sunday, January 11.
Entry details and more information can be found at greatrun.org/north.
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