ASICS secures title partnership for Manchester Half

ASICS has been confirmed as the new title partner of the Manchester Half. The announcement comes as the event experiences growth, with 32,000 runners reportedly set to take part this October.

Organised by A.S.O. UK, the British subsidiary of Tour de France organiser Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.), the Manchester Half has sold out for a third consecutive year. The 2026 edition sold out six months in advance and has increased 29% in size since 2024. According to the event organiser, newer runners are also being drawn to Manchester with one in four participants completing their first ever half marathon on Sunday, October 4, 2026.

With the UK headquarters of ASICS located in Greater Manchester, the partnership will include various activities in the region leading up to and on event day. The collaboration will focus on training runs, expert advice sessions, product trials, and race-day activations.

Freya Norrie, Partnerships Director at A.S.O. UK, said “We’re thrilled to be working with a brand as respected as ASICS as the Manchester Half enters its next phase; established as renowned event among UK runners and the perfect home for those taking on their first half marathon. Together with ASICS we celebrate all ability of runners to focus on uplifting minds through movement.”

Lucy Greenhalgh, Marketing Manager at ASICS UK, added “At ASICS, we believe in the power of movement to uplift both body and mind, which is why we’re incredibly proud to become the new title partner of the Manchester Half. More people than ever are discovering the positive impact running can have on mental wellbeing, confidence and connection and this event captures that perfectly. We’re excited to be with people throughout their journey to the finish line, as they take on an unforgettable experience in one of the UK’s most vibrant cities.”

The 2026 event is expected to raise £2 million for local and national UK charities. It will also support local community initiatives via the Manchester Marathon Community Fund, which receives a portion of every entry fee and is projected to pledge more than £70,000 to projects across Greater Manchester in 2026.

Amaury Sport Organisation manages more than 100 international events across 37 countries, specialising in mass participation and non-stadia sports such as the Tour de France, Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris, and adidas Manchester Marathon.

Check out the Manchester Half Marathon RIA Member profile here  . 

Check out the ASICS RIA Foundation Member profile here  .