Great North Run collaborates with well known North East street artist for 2026 designs

In 2026 the Great North Run returns for its 45th year, with the race announcing an exciting collaboration with North East street artist, Mul, to create a unique identity for this year’s event.

Alex Mulholland, better known as Mul, is renowned for his striking large scale outdoor murals and motifs across Tyneside and the wider North East.

Central to many of his dynamic pieces is his iconic Running Heart character which will become integral to the Great North Run look in 2026, including on the event finisher t-shirt and medal.

Founder and president of The Great North Run, Sir Brendan Foster said “The Great North Run has always been a real celebration of the North East so we’re delighted to be collaborating with Mul this year.

There were too many synergies to ignore beyond the obvious local connection. Mul’s artwork on the streets, just like our running event, is designed to be accessible to everyone for them to enjoy.

“In addition, his Running Heart embodies our event in so many ways. Every year tens of thousands of people run to raise money for many great causes, in memory of loved ones, to get healthier or purely for the love of running. I can’t wait to see Mul put his own take on our iconic event this year.”

Read the region’s news and sport headlines on the go when you sign up for our free emails

Mul added, “It’s a true honour to have been invited by The Great Run team to contribute to the legacy of such an iconic North East institution. To know my artwork will form part of The Great North Run’s history is a genuine bucket-list moment and something as an artist, I’m very proud of.”

The AJ Great North Run returns on Sunday, September 13.