Mr. Hayano, the Chairman / CEO of the Tokyo Marathon Foundation: "Expect today’s agreement to become a model case for sustainable sports business for both nations."
HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud: "Ultimately aim to connect people through sports and create new value through this partnership."
On Friday, February 27, the Tokyo Marathon Foundation held a press conference regarding the signing of a five-year Advisory Partnership Agreement with the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA), the primary body responsible for promoting sports in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The partnership aims to promote running sports and achieve mutual development.
The two organizations previously signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in late January 2026 to co-create world-class running events. Following the arrival in Japan of HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, President of the SFA, the formal agreement has now been officially ratified.
Under the national transformation strategy "Saudi Vision 2030," the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is actively promoting the sports and entertainment sectors. This agreement facilitates the sharing of event management expertise cultivated by the Tokyo Marathon—a member of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—to support the SFA in enhancing the quality of the Riyadh Marathon, the participant experience, and its gradual advancement toward international certification standards.
Furthermore, the SFA is scheduled to become an Official Partner of the Tokyo Marathon for five years, starting from the Tokyo Marathon 2027. Based on this agreement, both parties will build a strategic cooperative relationship that contributes to the growth of the sports industry in both nations.
Comment from Tadaaki Hayano, Chairman / CEO of the Tokyo Marathon Foundation:
"A marathon is more than just a sporting event. It is an integral part of urban strategy, enhancing a city's brand value and creating ripple effects across sectors such as tourism, hospitality, transportation, and retail. By welcoming numerous runners and spectators from home and abroad, the Tokyo Marathon has contributed to generating economic impact and elevating the city's international presence. Through this collaboration, we will share our accumulated expertise in event operations, sponsorship models, and safety measures to support the further development of the Riyadh Marathon."
Chairman Hayano further emphasized his confidence that this initiative would go beyond mere knowledge provision, leading to the development of the sports industry and the creation of new business opportunities in both countries. "Sports move people, move cities, and move economies. I sincerely hope that today’s signing will serve as a model case for sustainable sports business for both Japan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia."
Comment from HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, President of the SFA:
"Saudi Arabia is currently advancing its national transformation strategy, 'Saudi Vision 2030,' in which the improvement of public health and the development of the sports and entertainment sectors are key pillars. Through this agreement, we aim to enhance the quality and participant experience of the Riyadh Marathon, further developing the event in alignment with international standards. Ultimately, we want to connect people through sports and create new value." HRH Prince Khaled expressed his aspirations, noting his hope that this collaboration would serve as a bridge connecting the sports cultures of both nations.
