Getting to the start line for a 4.30am marathon is never easy. Getting there without spending a small fortune on a taxi is even better.

For the BYD Singapore International Marathon 2026, runners will have another option: MRT trains will start running from 2.30am on marathon morning, giving participants a much easier way to get to the F1 Pit Building before the sun comes up.

But that’s not the only change coming to SGIM this year.

The organisers have announced a series of new initiatives aimed at making the race bigger, safer and more accessible — including a new group of Medic Runners, a revamped Race Expo at the National Stadium and even a chance to win a brand-new BYD.

Free MRT rides from 2.30am

For the BYD Marathon on Sunday, 6 December, selected sections of the North-South, East-West and Circle Lines will operate from 2.30am to 4.30am.

Trains will run every 15 minutes, and rides will be complimentary for runners and their supporters.

The last complimentary trains will depart from Bukit Batok, Jurong East, Tanah Merah and Serangoon at 4.30am.

That could make a huge difference for runners who don’t live near the start area — especially when the race itself starts at 4.30am.

Paid shuttle buses will also operate over race weekend for runners without convenient MRT access.

Look out for the Medic Runners

SGIM is also introducing Medic Runners for the marathon and half marathon.

Up to 200 first-aid-trained runners will be spread throughout the course, acting as an extra layer of medical support alongside the event’s professional medical teams.

The idea is simple: if a runner gets into trouble, there may be a trained person only metres away who can help while the medical team is on its way.

The programme has already attracted more than 1,200 applicants, with around 20% being healthcare professionals.

It’s a particularly interesting addition to a mass-participation race, where those first few minutes can matter.

The finish line is getting a makeover

Another big change is happening at the other end of the race.

The National Stadium will become the centre of SGIM race weekend, with the Race Expo and finish line for every race except the Kids Dash located there.

And for the first time, the Race Expo will be integrated with the finish area rather than operating as a standalone event.

The organisers are promising F&B, shopping, limited-edition merchandise, athlete panels, meet-and-greets and live music — with free entry for everyone.

So the National Stadium won’t just be somewhere runners arrive, collect their medals and leave. It is intended to become the place to hang out throughout race weekend.

And yes, you could win a car

Here’s probably the most eye-catching new perk.

Every SGIM participant will automatically be entered into a lucky draw to win a brand-new BYD SEALION 7.

All race categories receive one entry, while BYD Marathon and Crew Challenge participants get two.

The winner will be announced on 7 December.

Imagine finishing a marathon on Sunday and going home with a new car.

More perks for runners

SGIM is also launching Friends of SGIM, bringing more than 20 local businesses into the race with exclusive promotions for registered runners.

Participating businesses include Sarnies, Nylon Coffee Roasters, Project Acai, Shelter and FORGED by RF, with more expected to join.

And the 2026 race pack is expected to contain goodies worth up to S$175, including an adidas participant tee, reusable foldable cup, tote bag, nasal strips and kinesiology tape.

A bigger SGIM for 2026?

Put all of these changes together and this year’s Singapore International Marathon is shaping up to be more than just a race.

The organisers are clearly trying to make SGIM a bigger event — from getting runners to the start line before dawn, to improving medical support, to turning the National Stadium into a destination for the entire weekend.

Whether that ambition can eventually put SGIM among Asia’s leading marathons remains to be seen.

But for runners, at least, being able to take a free MRT to a 4.30am marathon is a pretty good place to start.

Singapore International Marathon 2026

BYD Marathon: 6 December, 4.30am
adidas Half Marathon: 5 December, 4.30am
10km: 4 December, 8.30pm
5km: 4 December, 9.30pm
Kids Dash: 4 December, 7.30am

All races except the Kids Dash start at the F1 Pit Building and finish at the National Stadium.

Registration is open until 30 September 2026, or earlier if entries sell out.