Olly Alexander to Officially Start Brighton Half Marathon 2026

Actor and singer Olly Alexander has been announced as the official race starter for this year’s Brighton Half Marathon, taking place on Sunday 1 March.

The award-winning artist, best known for starring in Channel 4’s It’s a Sin and representing the UK at Eurovision 2024, said he was “honoured” to take on the role.

Alexander also revealed he plans to “jump straight” into the race afterwards to support Sussex Beacon’s team, the Brighton-based charity supporting people living with HIV.

“I’ve fallen in love with the charity,” he said.

“The work they do… is so important and vital.”

More than 10,000 runners are expected to take on the 13.1-mile course along the seafront in Brighton and Hove.

Joining Alexander on the start line will be Chris Oliver from SAS: Who Dares Wins, comedian Zoe Lyons, and Amanda from The Traitors (Season 4) for Team Beacon.

Runners will pass some of Brighton’s most iconic landmarks, including Brighton Palace Pier, the Royal Pavilion, West Pier, the i360, Brighton Marina, and the colourful Hove beach huts.

The event raises over £1 million for charity every year. On the same weekend, the Yeomans Toyota Wheelchair Race will take place on 1 March, while Youth Races are scheduled for 28 February.