The media department at the Beirut Marathon issued the below release on Monday concerning its annual international event:

"In light of the current events that our beloved country Lebanon is witnessing, the Beirut Marathon Association had decided to cancel this year's marathon, which was initially scheduled to take place on November 10. In view of recent events, the Beirut Marathon association took the following decisions:

1. The BEIRUT MARATHON 2019 is officially cancelled for year 2019. The 17th edition of the event is set to take place on November 8, 2020.

2. All Registered participants will be fully reimbursed once the banking system in Lebanon allows it. The time and place alongside further details concerning reimbursement will be communicated as soon as the situation is clearer.

3. The Beirut Marathon association is deeply hurt by the decision and all the implications that came with it from financial, logistics and administrative considerations. The association would like to extend its deepest apologies to the running community, partners, volunteers, sponsors, NGOS and the society in general. The event has earned the love of thousands of people throughout the years, and it has succeeded in pushing Lebanon forward as a destination on the international map of sports. The silver Label race has showed the professional side of our country in the world of long distance running.

The Beirut Marathon renews its commitment to grow the running culture in Lebanon through its targeted programs and multiple races held throughout the year and reconfirms the date of the international marathon in Beirut on November 8, 2020. The association prays for a united Lebanon full of wellbeing, prosperity and stability."