Sberbank’s Green Marathon is scheduled for May 20 this year, marking its tenth edition. The press service confirms that tens of thousands of runners will line up at the starting points across 60 cities in Russia, turning the event into a national celebration of sport and community.
The Green Marathon goes beyond a simple race. It functions as a festival that spotlights environmental action and public awareness. The day is filled with activities that extend the message of sustainability, including community cleanups, tree planting, and programs to collect recyclable materials. Each year the event blends athletic challenge with environmental stewardship, inviting people from all walks of life to participate in meaningful, hands-on efforts that benefit the planet.
Participants can choose from a variety of race distances, and the program is packed with festive concerts, friendly competitions, and activities suitable for every family member. The organizers emphasize that the race remains charitable at its core. This year, the event is organized in partnership with Sberbank’s Contribution to the Future charitable program. Every runner and generous donor using the SberVmeste portal will contribute to forest restoration projects tied to the marathon venues, with proceeds earmarked for planting trees.
Stanislav Kuznetsov, the Deputy Chairman of the Board at Sberbank, notes that the Green Marathon began on the cusp of the Sochi Winter Olympic Games as part of an initiative to cultivate a healthier lifestyle and a deeper respect for nature among Russians. The idea was to engage the wider public in acts that combine sport, philanthropy, and environmental care.
Over the years, hundreds of thousands of Russians have joined in these celebrations, participating in athletic events, giving to charitable causes, and supporting environmental initiatives. Kuznetsov invites everyone to take part, from amateur runners and seasoned athletes to fans, families, and children, highlighting the inclusive spirit of the event.
As Kuznetsov points out, the Green Marathon is poised to be one of the most vibrant and prominent happenings in May, expected to leave a lasting impression on participants and communities alike. The organizing team is focused on delivering clear, value-driven experiences that resonate with both local residents and visitors.
Registration for the race is already open on the official racing website, according to Sberbank, inviting participants from across Russia and beyond to join in a day of sport, charity, and environmental contribution that aligns with broader global efforts to support sustainable living and greener communities. In Canada and the United States, observers note the event reflects a growing trend toward mass participation athletics that pair personal achievement with social impact, a model increasingly seen in cross-border philanthropic sporting events.