In an unprecedented move, the London Marathon is set to expand to a two-day event in 2027, accommodating a record 100,000 runners over the weekend of April 24–25. This expansion is a direct response to the overwhelming interest from the public, with over 1.3 million people entering the ballot for a chance to participate. Despite the increased capacity, the probability of securing a spot remains under 10%, underscoring the event’s immense popularity.
The marathon’s enlargement is expected to bring in over £150 million for charity, positioning it as the most significant fundraising event in UK sports history. Additionally, it is anticipated to deliver approximately £400 million in social and economic benefits to the region. Such figures highlight the event’s dual impact as both a charitable powerhouse and an economic boon.
Over the two days, the marathon will feature a diverse schedule. The first day will showcase the elite women’s, elite female para-athletes, and “Good for Age” women’s races, coupled with a mass participation event that includes nearly 50,000 runners. The following day will spotlight the elite men’s race, along with another large-scale mass participation event. This setup allows the marathon to maintain its competitive edge while also embracing a broader community of participants.
Participants will be restricted to competing on only one of the two days, ensuring a fair distribution of runners and maintaining the event’s integrity. The results of the ballot, which will determine who gets to run, are slated to be announced in early July. This unique two-day format is described as a one-time celebration, with the London Marathon planning to revert to its traditional single-day schedule in future editions.