When does the 2026 London Marathon take place?

The London Marathon is a prestigious sporting event that takes place annually in the picturesque streets of the British capital. It represents not only a physical challenge for the participants but also an opportunity to come together for a charitable cause, reflecting a strong community spirit and the commitment of participants and spectators to support various charities.

History of the London Marathon

Initiated in 1981 by former Olympic champion Chris Brasher and John Disley, the London Marathon quickly gained notoriety, with 7,741 runners in its inaugural edition. Crossing iconic locations such as the Tower Bridge and The Mall, this marathon of 42.195 kilometers is part of the prestigious World Marathon Majors, a series that includes six of the most renowned marathons in the world: New York, Chicago, Boston, Berlin, Tokyo, and London. It symbolizes not only athletic competition but also a spirit of solidarity, with a significant contribution to charitable works.

Renamed TCS London Marathon thanks to the support of TCS, it now embodies an alliance between sporting excellence and technological innovation, attracting athletes from around the world. This event not only has a significant impact on the world of sports but also contributes to charitable initiatives, having raised millions for various causes over the years.

2024 London Marathon Edition

The next London Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, April 21, 2024. The course will remain largely unchanged since the inaugural event in 1981, including many of the capital's iconic landmarks, both old and new.

How to register for the London Marathon?

To register for the 2024 London Marathon, residents and non-residents can enter the lottery on the official London Marathon website. If you are selected, you will receive an email and must pay the registration fee.

As usual, the marathon will start in the morning, allowing runners to enjoy the cool of the early hours.

• Start location: 9:30 AM at Greenwich Park and Blackheath Park
• Registration fee:
  • If you reside in the UK: £69.99
  • If you are a non-resident: £146 (includes a £20 carbon offset fee)

Retrospective: 2023 London Marathon Edition

The 2023 edition of the London Marathon, which took place on Sunday, April 23, was the largest to date with over 48,000 runners. It saw Kelvin Kiptum of Kenya win the men's race in 2 hours, 1 minute, and 25 seconds, thus breaking the previous record. Sifan Hassan from the Netherlands won the women's race in 2 hours, 18 minutes, and 33 seconds despite a hip injury.

Participating in the London Marathon is a unique experience, a celebration of human resilience, charity, and community - whether as a runner or a spectator. The race passes through iconic sites of the capital, creating an electric atmosphere that unites participants in a spirit of camaraderie and determination.