London Marathon sets record after 1.8% of UK adult population applies for 2027 race
The 2027 London Marathon has received a record 1.33 million global applications, including over one million from the UK alone, representing 1.8% of the UK adult population. Organizers attribute the surge in interest to the event's growing popularity and recent historic performances, such as Sabastian Sawe's sub-two-hour marathon. A potential two-day format in 2027 could double participation to around 100,000 runners.
- ▪The 2027 London Marathon received 1,338,544 global applications, a world record for a single marathon event.
- ▪Over 1.8% of the UK adult population—1,008,091 people—applied for a spot in the 2027 race.
- ▪Women aged 20–29 submitted the highest number of applications, with over 179,000 entries.
- ▪Fewer than 20,000 people typically gain entry through the random ballot system.
- ▪Organizers are seeking approval for a two-day marathon format in 2027 to accommodate nearly 100,000 runners.
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Runners cross Tower Bridge during the 2026 London Marathon. Photograph: Jaimi Joy/ReutersView image in fullscreenRunners cross Tower Bridge during the 2026 London Marathon. Photograph: Jaimi Joy/ReutersLondon MarathonLondon Marathon sets record after 1.8% of UK adult population applies for 2027 raceOver one million entries received from UK runnersLondon also sets record with 1.3m total applicationsSean IngleTue 5 May 2026 08.06 EDTLast modified on Tue 5 May 2026 08.31 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe London Marathon has set yet more records with organisers announcing that 1.8% of the UK adult population – more than one million people – have applied to run in next year’s race.Running’s boom was also reflected in a world record 1,338,544 global application for the 2027 London…
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