How to Track a Runner at the New York City Marathon

The NYRR App, developed by Tata Consultancy Services, is the race's official tool for tracking runners on race day. It is available as a free download for iOS and Android, and organizers provide it so spectators can follow progress on an interactive map across the 26.2-mile course.

How do I track a runner in the app?

Open the tracking section in the app and search for your runner, then add them to your favorites. You can follow multiple runners at the same time, which is helpful if you are supporting a group or a charity team. The interactive map shows their progress across the five boroughs, so you can plan where to cheer instead of relying on a goal pace alone.

What splits and times does the app show?

Official timing mats sit at the start, every 5K, halfway, mile 20, and the finish. The app uses those recorded splits to update a runner's progress, so spectators should treat the map as a race estimate rather than a live GPS location.

What else should I know before race day?

The New York City Marathon runs on Sunday, November 1, 2026. For runners looking toward future editions, NYC Marathon lottery odds covers the acceptance rate, and how to get into the NYC Marathon outlines the guaranteed entry routes including 9+1 and time qualifiers.

Sources: New York Road Runners: watch the race, New York Road Runners: the course