Over 1.1 million people have signed up for the 2026 London Marathon, setting a new global record for the number of applications to a marathon event. Organisers confirmed the figure after the ballot closed on Friday, marking a major milestone in the history of the race and further cementing London’s status as the world’s most popular marathon.
This record-breaking interest follows a landmark 2025 edition of the race, held last Sunday, which saw a series of historic achievements and overwhelming public participation. The number of applicants for the 2026 event has nearly doubled the total received for the 2024 marathon and has comfortably surpassed the previous world record of 840,300 entries set for the 2025 race.
The surge in applications highlights the growing global appeal of the London Marathon, a race that has transformed into more than just an elite sporting event it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings together runners from across the globe, including professional athletes, passionate amateurs, and fun-loving participants in costumes.
The 2025 edition, which marked the 45th renewal of the race, also earned a place in the Guinness World Records for the highest number of marathon finishers. Over 56,500 runners crossed the finish line in London’s spring sunshine, surpassing the previous record of 55,600 set by the New York Marathon in 2024. For comparison, last month’s Paris Marathon recorded 56,950 starters, but a lower number of finishers.
Among the standout moments in this year’s event was a new women’s-only world record set by Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa. She crossed the line in a stunning time of 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 50 seconds, delivering a performance that captivated both spectators and athletics enthusiasts around the world. In the men’s elite race, Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe triumphed, showcasing exceptional endurance and pacing.
Beyond athletic feats, the London Marathon continues to be a powerful force for philanthropy. The 2025 race raised over £75 million the equivalent of $99.5 million for a wide range of charitable causes. Thousands of runners took to the streets not only to achieve personal goals but also to make a difference, fundraising in support of medical research, education, mental health, and many other vital services.
The 2026 marathon, buoyed by this unprecedented level of public interest, is expected to be an even more momentous occasion. Organisers are now tasked with the challenge of preparing for what could be the biggest and most ambitious London Marathon to date. The sheer number of applications indicates a growing global desire to be part of this iconic event, whether as a runner, a supporter, or a volunteer.
The London Marathon has consistently demonstrated its unique ability to inspire individuals from all walks of life. It combines elite competition with mass participation in a way that few other sporting events can replicate. With the next edition still almost a year away, excitement is already building not just in London, but across the world.
