In an unprecedented move, the London Marathon is set to break new ground in 2027 by transforming into a two-day event for the first time, accommodating an extraordinary 100,000 runners over the weekend of April 24-25. This temporary expansion is a response to the overwhelming interest shown by participants, with over 1.3 million people entering the public ballot. Despite the increased capacity, the likelihood of securing a spot remains under 10%, reflecting the event’s immense popularity.
Organisers anticipate that this expanded format will not only set a new benchmark in participation but also in fundraising, aiming to generate over £150 million for charitable causes. This would mark the London Marathon as the largest fundraising event in the history of UK sports. Additionally, the event is expected to contribute approximately £400 million in social and economic benefits, highlighting its significant impact beyond the race itself.
The weekend will be split strategically to accommodate various categories of runners. One day will feature the elite women’s race, elite female para-athletes, championship, and “Good for Age” women’s races, alongside a mass participation event involving nearly 50,000 runners. The following day will spotlight the elite men’s race, complemented by another large-scale mass participation event. This structure allows for a diverse range of athletes to showcase their talents while maintaining the event’s inclusive spirit.
Participants will be allowed to run on only one of the two days, ensuring fair distribution and management of the crowd. The results of the ballot, which decides who gets to compete, are expected to be announced in early July. While this two-day format is confirmed for 2027 as a special celebration, plans are in place to revert to the traditional single-day marathon in subsequent years, maintaining the iconic nature of the event.