London Marathon organizers are thinking about making a big change to the 2027 race.
There’s exciting news for marathon lovers! Organizers are thinking about having the London Marathon spread over two days in 2027. This would mean thousands more people could join this famous race and help raise over £130 million for charity.
Last year, a record-breaking 1.1 million people tried to get a spot in the 2026 London Marathon – that’s 36% more than the year before! But with only about 57,000 runners allowed, just around 5% of those who applied actually got to race.
The new two-day event could change all that by allowing up to 100,000 runners to take part. Hugh Brasher, CEO of London Marathon Events, shared that the idea has been met with lots of positive feedback. One day would focus on elite and faster women runners, while the other day would highlight the men’s races. Both days would feature mass-participation races too.
Brasher also said, “The London Marathon has been loved for 45 years, and we want to keep that special feeling. We have to be careful not to spoil it, so this is planned as a one-time event. But there is a real need to make it happen.”
This special two-day race could raise over £130 million for charity and bring in £400 million in social and economic benefits, according to Sheffield Hallam University.
While nothing is finalized yet, talks are well underway. A spokesperson from London Marathon Events said they are always looking for new ways to let more people join in and to bring positive benefits to London. They’re working closely with partners to plan the two-day marathon for 2027.
Earlier this year, the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, shared his excitement, saying, “London is the sporting capital of the world, and we look forward to working with the marathon team to see if a two-day event next year might be possible.”