Chariots of Fire returns to Cambridge in 2026 supporting British Heart Foundation

Chariots of Fire, Cambridge’s iconic six-person relay race, will return on 20 September 2026, giving teams the chance to run through the city’s historic colleges and raise funds for the British Heart Foundation (BHF).

Now in its 34th year, Chariots of Fire is a unique road-closed relay which takes runners along a distinctive two-mile loop, passing through the grounds of several University of Cambridge colleges. Each team member completes one circuit before handing over the baton in a test of pace, teamwork and community spirit.

This year, there will also be a new category for young people aged 11 and over, who can choose to run on their own or with a parent or guardian.

HCR Law founded Chariots of Fire in 1992 and is once again organising the event in partnership with RunThrough, the UK’s largest and Europe’s fastest-growing running events company.

More than £1.6m has been raised for various charities since the race began. In 2026, all fundraising from Chariots of Fire will support the British Heart Foundation (BHF), the UK’s largest independent funder of cardiovascular research. This year, money raised will directly benefit three research projects taking place at the Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Heart and Lung Research Institute (VPD-HLRI) in Cambridge. The VPD-HLRI is a state-of-the-art facility where scientists and clinicians collaborate to accelerate breakthroughs in heart and lung health, with the BHF as a founding partner.

Sarah Lennon, Head of Fundraising at the BHF, said: “We are thrilled that this year’s Chariots of Fire will support pioneering research at the VPD-HLRI. Together, we’ll help advance understanding of inherited heart conditions, drive new discoveries that could prevent congenital heart defects in babies, and develop better ways to protect the heart and improve recovery after a heart attack.

“This research has the power to transform lives for families across Cambridgeshire and beyond. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone taking part in Chariots of Fire for helping to turn today’s discoveries into tomorrow’s lifesaving treatments.”

Rob Sullivan, Director of Operations at RunThrough, shared: “Chariots of Fire is a truly special event in the heart of Cambridge and we’re thrilled to be working with HCR Law to bring it back in 2026. The atmosphere, the history and the incredible fundraising impact make it a standout date in the city’s sporting calendar. We look forward to welcoming teams of all abilities for another fantastic race day, all in support of the BHF.”

Colin Jones, Partner at HCR Law, said: “It’s remarkable to see Chariots of Fire reach its 34th year. The race is a significant date in the Cambridge calendar, and we’re delighted this year’s fundraising will support the BHF’s vital research. We hope to see as many teams as possible on the start line and we’ll be cheering everyone home as they raise money for such an important cause.”

Adam Finch, Partner and Charity Lead at HCR Law, added: “If each team raises at least £250, and numbers match last year, we could raise £50,000 for the BHF – an incredible target and one we’d love to achieve together.”

Teams can now register to take part in Chariots of Fire 2026, with categories available for male, female, mixed, veteran and college teams, as well as young people aged 11 and over. The official event village on Queens’ Green will provide food, drink and entertainment on race day.

Chariots of Fire is more than a race – it’s a celebration of community, history and charitable giving. With a strong legacy and an inspiring cause for 2026, runners of all levels are encouraged to get involved.

Heart and circulatory disease is a leading cause of death and ill health. Every four hours someone in Cambridgeshire dies from cardiovascular disease. And around 100,000 people in the area are living with one of these conditions.

For more information and to register your team, visit the Chariots of Fire website.