Jakarta’s vision to become a prominent global sports city is rapidly taking shape, as revealed by Governor Pramono Anung at the Indonesia Sports Summit 2025 held at the Indonesia Arena, Jakarta, on Saturday (6/12). During his keynote address, Pramono articulated ambitious plans to elevate Jakarta’s standing in the international sports arena, attracting global attention and participation.
A cornerstone of this strategy is the Jakarta International Marathon 2026. Governor Pramono announced an ambitious target of 40,000 participants for the event, a significant increase from the 35,000 participants recorded this year. The momentum is expected to build, with an even grander objective set for 2027, coinciding with Jakarta’s 500th anniversary.
“By 2027, when Jakarta celebrates its 500th year, we must aim for 50,000 participants, and crucially, we will substantially increase the prize money. To truly establish itself as a major marathon, competitive prize money is essential,” Pramono emphasized during his speech at the Indonesia Sports Summit 2025. He expressed strong confidence in achieving these targets, noting that a diverse range of sports activities in Jakarta has already garnered considerable interest from the global community, solidifying the city’s appeal as a burgeoning sports hub.
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Beyond the competitive spirit, these large-scale sporting events, including the marathon and regular Car Free Day initiatives, are recognized for their substantial positive economic impact on the city. Governor Pramono highlighted that such events transcend mere athletic pursuits, serving as vital drivers for local commerce and hospitality.
Indeed, major gatherings like the Jakarta International Marathon 2026 and the Jakarta Running Festival consistently lead to full hotel occupancy, underscoring their appeal to both domestic and international visitors. The positive ripple effects extend to local small and medium-sized enterprises (UMKM), which benefit significantly from the increased foot traffic and economic activity. Recognizing this broad impact, the DKI Jakarta Government is committed to providing a range of incentives and facilities to support these events.
“The Jakarta Government is offering special facilities: anyone participating in these two marathons will receive free public transportation across Jakarta,” Pramono announced, detailing one such privilege. This initiative aims to enhance the participant experience while promoting sustainable urban mobility.
Furthermore, the Jakarta Provincial Government plans comprehensive logistical arrangements to ensure the smooth execution of the marathon. Designated areas will be blocked off to vehicle traffic, guaranteeing an uninterrupted and safe race course for all participants. To facilitate the full utilization of these dedicated facilities, other regular sporting activities, such as Car Free Day, will be temporarily suspended on event days, allowing the city to channel its resources entirely towards creating a world-class marathon experience.
Summary
Governor Pramono Anung aims to position Jakarta as a prominent global sports city, primarily through two major running events. The Jakarta International Marathon 2026 targets 40,000 participants, with an ambitious goal of 50,000 by 2027, coinciding with Jakarta’s 500th anniversary. To elevate its status as a major marathon, the prize money will be substantially increased.
These large-scale events, including the Jakarta International Marathon and Jakarta Running Festival, are anticipated to generate significant positive economic impact, boosting local commerce and hotel occupancy. The Jakarta Government is committed to supporting these events with incentives like free public transportation for participants and comprehensive logistical arrangements, such as designated road closures, to ensure their success.
