Race morning at the ABP Southampton Marathon Festival 2026 is going to be pretty special.At 8:30am, as runners gather at our brand-new start line at Dock Gate 8, something unforgettable will happen…
An 8-minute Spitfire Display
Just before the race gets underway, a historic Spitfire will fly above Southampton, putting on an incredible 8-minute display to start the day.
This isn’t just any plane, it’s Spitfire RR232, a beautifully restored Supermarine Spitfire with an amazing story behind it. You can read more about the aircraft here: https://www.spitfires.com/rr232
A Moment You’ll Never Forget
Picture it.
Thousands of runners standing together.
The buzz. The nerves. The excitement.
Then you hear it, the sound of a Spitfire engine rolling across the city.
It’s one of those moments that makes you stop, look up, and take it all in… before you’ve even taken your first step. Goosebumps guaranteed.
Why the Spitfire Matters to Southampton
This display isn’t just for show.
Southampton has a strong link to aviation history and to Supermarine, the company that designed the Spitfire. The Solent played a huge role in aircraft development and testing during the Second World War.
Seeing a Spitfire in the skies above the city is a reminder of resilience, teamwork and determination, values that feel very familiar on marathon morning.
A special way to start race day
With our new start line for 2026, we wanted to create a moment that really means something, a proud moment for the city and a memorable way to begin your race.
This Spitfire flypast will be:
- A nod to Southampton’s history
- A shared moment for runners and supporters
- An unforgettable start to your race day
Whether you’re running the Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K or 5K, it’s a moment you’ll experience together and remember long after you cross the finish line.
Important Details
Time: 8:30am
Display: 8-minute Spitfire display
Location: New ABP Southampton Marathon Festival start line, Dock Gate 8 City Cruise Terminal
(Subject to weather and operational conditions)
See you on the start line
Race morning in 2026 will be about more than running. It will be about shared moments, pride in the city, and starting something special together.
We can’t wait to welcome you, look up together… and then send you on your way.
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