3rd FT Nikkei UK Ekiden Set for June 12 in Britain as Global Recognition Grows

The 3rd FT Nikkei UK Ekiden will take place on June 12, 2026, spanning 112km from Windsor to Reading along the Thames. As the only authentic university ekiden outside Japan, it features 17 top UK universities and 18 corporate teams in a 10-person mixed relay format. This year's event partners with Ishikawa Prefecture for Noto earthquake recovery, featuring a special trophy crafted from disaster-affected timber by royal artisan brand LINLEY. Ritsumeikan University from Japan will also join as guests to celebrate Japan-UK cultural ties.