Radar Stemma: São Silvestre Medals, Rio Marathon & More
This weekly roundup covers 100th São Silvestre medals, Netshoes in Rio's 10k, new shoe launches, and running industry news.
Catch up on the full Radar Stemma roundup featuring the delivery of the 100th São Silvestre medals, a sponsor change at the Rio Marathon, elite super shoes, and key sports industry moves.
Pending São Silvestre medals begin reaching runners
Following the issues reported at the historic 100th edition of the São Silvestre International Road Race, finishers who crossed the line without receiving a medal on race day have started receiving them directly at home. The shipment is handled by race organizers (Fundação Cásper Líbero and Vega Sports) and comes with an official letter of apology.
In the statement, organizers acknowledge the months of preparation and effort invested by each participant, emphasizing the symbolic value of finishing the centennial edition. The measure aims to resolve an uncomfortable situation for finishers, ensuring everyone receives their physical keepsake from the historic race.
Rio Marathon replaces betting company with Netshoes for 10k
The Rio Marathon has announced a major change in naming rights for its 10 km race. Following pushback and criticism from runners in previous editions over sports betting sponsors, the 10k distance will now be named the Netshoes 10K, replacing BetNacional.
This marks the first time Netshoes has taken on official sponsorship of the race, which is part of the running festival scheduled for June. Organizers emphasized their aim to align with well-being and the inclusive culture of road running.
Nike bets on urban activations at the Hong Kong Marathon
During the Hong Kong Marathon, Nike made a major splash with its Embrace the Challenge campaign. The brand set up mobile hubs across key city spots, offering Nike Run Club training sessions, expert advice, foot-scanning technology, and performance trials.
The goal was to connect the race to the city's urban rhythm before, during, and after the event, supporting runners well beyond the finish line.
LeBron James honors Martin Luther King Jr. on court
Nike introduced a special edition honoring US civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. The sneaker features a teal colorway inspired by the facade of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, where the leader was assassinated in 1968 and which now houses the National Civil Rights Museum.
Informally dubbed a commemorative edition, the shoe debuted on court with LeBron James, marking another step by the brand to bridge historical memory, culture, and sports.
Adidas unveils Bob Marley collab on Evo SL
Adidas revealed official images of a special collaboration inspired by Bob Marley, featured on the Adizero Evo SL alongside a version of the classic Gazelle Indoor. The shoe sports a yellow upper with green, red, and black accents, directly referencing Rastafarian aesthetics.
The release also features the phrase Football is Freedom and Marley's signature, highlighting the long-standing bond between the reggae legend, the three-stripe brand, and a shared passion for soccer.
Cronomac designs anti-counterfeit race bibs
To combat bib duplication and misuse at sports events—a recurring issue at large-scale races—timing company Cronomac announced the development of a race bib featuring a holographic security strip and blacklight-reactive ink.
The technology prevents home duplication of materials, helping organizers crack down on bandit runners and unregistered participants.
Nubank acquires Ironman Brazil naming rights
According to reporting by Bloomberg Línea, Nubank beat out competing financial institutions to secure the naming rights for Ironman in Brazil, replacing Itaú BBA. The fintech is leveraging the partnership to promote its premium segment, Nubank Ultravioleta.
The partnership is expected to cover Ironman, Ironman 70.3, and other events organized by Unlimited Sports in the country, aligning the bank's messaging with the resilience and planning demanded by long-distance triathlon.
Mizuno introduces Hyper Warp family with a 137-gram super shoe
Mizuno globally unveiled its new super shoe racing lineup: the Hyper Warp family, featuring the Pro, Elite, and Pure models. Engineered for peak performance and running economy, the shoes feature responsive foams and carbon-fiber plates.
The standout in weight is the Pure version, weighing in at roughly 137 grams (4.8 oz). The line was designed to serve everything from elite runners chasing records to athletes seeking a balance of propulsion and comfort during hard workouts.
On partners with Esporte Clube Pinheiros track and field team
Swiss brand On has announced a sponsorship deal with the track and field department of Esporte Clube Pinheiros, a storied powerhouse developing Olympic athletes in Brazil. The project aims to provide high-performance gear to the team focusing on the Olympic cycle for the Los Angeles 2028 Games.
The move reinforces the brand's commitment to grassroots and elite track and field across the country.
Adidas unveils Boston Marathon edition Adizero Adios Pro 4
Adidas revealed a commemorative Boston Marathon colorway for the Adizero Adios Pro 4. The shoe features iconic shades of blue, white, and yellow, honoring the visual identity of the world's oldest World Marathon Major.
With refined detailing and cutting-edge Adizero technology, the shoe celebrates race heritage while delivering record-breaking race-day performance.
Boston Marathon confirms star-studded elite field for 2026
Boston Marathon organizers have announced the first major names set to headline the elite field. The star-studded lineup includes top contenders such as Benson Kipruto, John Korir, Conner Mantz, and other world-class distance runners.
Featuring Olympic medalists and Major champions, the race promises one of the most competitive battles in recent years along the historic course from Hopkinton to Boylston Street.
Meia Internacional do Butantã postponed to May
A traditional independent race in São Paulo organized by Cuban runner Thomas Pape Cabrera, the Meia Internacional do Butantã has been rescheduled for May. Renowned for its no-nonsense, grassroots road-racing vibe, the event retains its community-driven, resilient place on the city's running calendar.