The opening ceremony was attended by senior leaders from central and city agencies, along with ambassadors and representatives from nearly 20 foreign embassies, international organizations, and schools in Hanoi.
Overview of the event.
This year's final brought together more than 3,000 athletes from nearly 200 units, including 126 wards and communes, universities, colleges, vocational schools, athletes from other provinces and cities, as well as international participants and sponsors. Around 2,500 delegates, officials, and members of local agencies and organizations also joined the opening run in support.
A tradition of sport and peace
In her opening remarks, Vice Chairwoman of Hanoi People's Committee Vu Thu Ha highlighted the event's significance, coinciding with the 71st anniversary of the Capital's Liberation Day (October 10, 1954 – October 10, 2025) and 26 years since UNESCO recognized Hanoi as a City for Peace.
She emphasized that the race continues to carry the message of health, solidarity, and peace while nurturing the athletic spirit of the capital.
Launched in 1974, the Hanoimoi Newspaper Run has become one of Vietnam's most prestigious and long-standing athletics events. From grassroots competitions held across all districts, towns, and schools earlier this year, more than 350,000 athletes participated, creating a vibrant foundation for the citywide final.
Expanding scale and international reach
This year's final attracted 250 foreign athletes, including staff from embassies, international organizations, and international schools in Hanoi, who competed alongside local athletes. The addition of new race categories for corporate sponsors also reflected the organizers' effort to diversify participation and promote running clubs and community sports.
Athletes competed in 12 race categories, ranging from 1,750 meters for middle and high school students and international runners to 8,750 meters for elite male athletes representing provincial and municipal track-and-field teams.
Participants at the event.
Peace message to the world
During the ceremony, Nguyen Ngoc Ky, President of the Hanoi Union of Friendship Organizations, read the Peace Message, honoring the sacrifices of past generations and reaffirming Hanoi's commitment to solidarity and friendship.
Athletes and delegates also signed the Peace Flag, sending a symbolic message of unity, compassion and hope for a world free of violence and war.
On behalf of the organizers, Hanoimoi Newspaper presented VND100 million (US$4,100) to the Hanoi Relief Fund, demonstrating the event's strong social and humanitarian spirit.
After 50 editions, the Hanoimoi Newspaper Run for Peace continues to grow in both scale and influence, celebrating sportsmanship, friendship, and the enduring aspiration for peace in Vietnam's capital.