Distance running focus sharpens at Cognizant New Delhi Marathon 2026 with ASICS involvement

Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India and South Asia, and Nagaraj Adiga, CMD, NEB Sports Entertainment, discuss runner preparation, equipment choices, and experience design at the 2026 edition

Mumbai, 10 February 2026: The Cognizant New Delhi Marathon 2026 will see continued emphasis on runner preparation, equipment, and on ground experience through the ongoing involvement of ASICS, which enters the third year of its association with the event.
The sportswear brand will support the marathon in its capacity as Official Sports Goods Partner, with a focus on footwear and apparel designed for distance running conditions. The association coincides with growing participation levels and increasing attention among runners towards training consistency, injury management, and recovery.

For the 2026 edition, ASICS has identified the GEL CUMULUS 28 as the primary running shoe linked to the event. Positioned for everyday training and race use, the model incorporates cushioning and stability features intended to support longer mileage and varied running paces. The shoe includes FF BLAST MAX cushioning, PureGEL heel technology for impact absorption, a breathable engineered mesh upper, and a FLUIDRIDE outsole to aid transition and grip. It is designed for neutral runners seeking a balanced ride across training cycles.

In parallel, ASICS will also support runners with a race day apparel line aligned to warm weather and high effort conditions. The range includes garments featuring ACTIBREEZE technology, ROAD 2 IN 1 5IN shorts, NAGINO Run adjustable tights, and performance accessories such as caps and socks, aimed at airflow management and comfort during extended activity.
Commenting on the partnership, Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India and South Asia, said the New Delhi Marathon reflects changes in how Indian runners approach the sport, with greater awareness around consistency, injury prevention, and overall wellbeing. He said the continued association allows the brand to remain engaged with runners through equipment design, retail presence, and community oriented programmes linked to training and recovery.

Nagaraj Adiga, CMD at NEB Sports Entertainment Pvt Ltd, said the objective of the marathon has been to build a professionally managed and inclusive running event across participant categories. He said collaboration with ASICS for the 2026 edition supports this objective by giving runners access to performance oriented products and knowledge resources that aid preparation and race day execution.

Beyond the event itself, ASICS plans to run supporting initiatives connected to the marathon, including community runs, training support activities, recovery focused interactions, and digital engagement formats. These initiatives are intended to extend runner interaction beyond race day and align preparation with longer term participation in the sport.
The GEL CUMULUS 28 is available across ASICS exclusive brand stores, select multi brand retail outlets, and online platforms in India.

At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.