The London Marathon attracted a record 56,000 participants on Sunday, with fine wins for Sabastian Sawe, and Tigst Assefa – in a women’s only world record.
Celebrities also took part among the masses, with the 22°C heat causing many to struggle over the 26-mile distance. As many as 750,000 are thought to have lined the capital’s streets to watch.
The goodwill and vibes around the event are enough to make many overlook the physical toil – but thousands are thought to have already signed up for 2026.
If you would like to be on the start line next year, here is what you need to know about signing up.
How to enter the 2026 London Marathon
When is the 2026 London Marathon?
The 2026 TCS London Marathon will take place on Sunday, April 26.
How can I enter the 2026 London Marathon via the ballot?
Entry can be obtained via the official ballot, which is live on the site.
It is free to enter the ballot although if you are given a space you will need to pay an entry fee of £79.99.
Participants have the option to donate their entry fee at the first point of ballot entry with this fee going to charity if unsuccessful. The fee is £49.99 at the first time of asking.
Those who donate their entry will also be sent a training top and will be given access to 3,000 extra places in a second ballot.
The ballot closes on Friday May 2.
“The winners are drawn at random, so everyone has an equal shot,” organisers have said.
Those entering have the option to do the Brighton Marathon on April 12, 2026 for a reduced £69.99 if they are unable to get into London.
How else can I get a place in the London Marathon 2026?
If you are able to run a “good for age” time then you can have the option of getting a place among those ringfenced for faster runners.
Organisers set aside 6,000 places for runners who are able to attain what is considered a “good for age” time for their sex.
These must be obtained in the qualifying period between October 1, 2024 and September 30, 2025. The full scope of the times can be seen here.
Another route is to take one of the places reserved for charities. An organisation will give you a place in exchange for an agreement to try to reach a fundraising goal but watch out as this can be in the thousands of pounds and a commitment perhaps beyond training. If you do not achieve the required funds then you may not be allowed to run.
