Every spring, the streets of London come alive with the rhythmic pounding of running shoes, the roar of the crowd, and stories of triumph and endurance. If you’ve ever thought to yourself, “Maybe I could do this,” you’re not alone—and now’s the time to turn that thought into a plan.
The 2026 TCS London Marathon will take place on Sunday, April 26, 2026, and the ballot for entry opens TODAY, Friday, April 25, 2025.
Here’s everything you need to know—how the ballot works, how to improve your odds, alternative routes to get in, and what makes this race one of the most iconic marathons on Earth.
What Makes the London Marathon So Special?
Founded in 1981 by former Olympic champion Chris Brasher and athlete John Disley, the London Marathon has become one of the six World Marathon Majors, alongside Boston, New York, Berlin, Chicago, and Tokyo. What started as a relatively small event has grown into a cultural phenomenon.
Today, the London Marathon is:
- One of the world’s largest fundraising events, with over £1 billion raised for charities to date
- A global TV spectacle, broadcast to more than 190 countries
- A race that blends elites, fun-runners, and charity champions, all on the same course
- Famed for its crowd support, with cheering zones nearly every step of the way
The course itself reads like a sightseeing tour of London: from the leafy start in Blackheath, runners pass landmarks like the Cutty Sark, Canary Wharf, Tower Bridge, The Shard, and Big Ben, before finishing near Buckingham Palace.
Key Dates for 2026
- Ballot Opens: Friday, April 25, 2025
- Ballot Closes: Friday, May 2, 2025
- Ballot Results Sent: July 2025 (exact date TBD)
- Race Day: Sunday, April 26, 2026
ENTER THE 2026 LONDON MARATHON BALLOT HERE!
How the Ballot Works
The London Marathon ballot is notoriously competitive. In 2024, over 840,000 people applied for approximately 17,000 public ballot spots—that’s a roughly 2% chance of success.
When entering the ballot, UK residents can choose between two payment options:
Entry Fee Options
- Standard Fee: £79.99
- Donation Option: £49.99
If you don’t get a place, this fee is donated to the London Marathon Foundation—and you’re automatically entered into a second ballot, effectively doubling your chances.
If you don’t get a spot in either draw, you’ll receive a premium winter running top (retail value: £60), and your donation helps fund projects that encourage physical activity across the UK.
Alternative Ways To Get In
Didn’t win the ballot? You’re not alone. Fortunately, there are several other ways to run the 2026 London Marathon.
1. Good for Age Entry (UK Residents Only)
The Good for Age route rewards performance. You must complete a certified marathon before September 30, 2025, within a qualifying time for your age group.
For example:
- Men aged 40–44: Under 2:57:00
- Women aged 40–44: Under 3:43:00
Applications open in October 2025, and spots are awarded on a fastest-first basis. More info at the TCS London Marathon site.
2. Charity Places
Charity spots are an excellent (and fulfilling) way in. These bibs are distributed to organizations across the UK. To get one, you typically need to:
- Apply directly to the charity
- Show your connection to the cause
- Commit to a fundraising minimum (often £1,500+)
Early applications are encouraged—these places go quickly.
3. International Tour Operators
Runners outside the UK can apply through official tour partners. These packages often include:
- Guaranteed race entry
- Hotel accommodations
- VIP hospitality and sightseeing add-ons
Check the official list of tour partners to find your country’s authorized operator.
4. Running Clubs and Competitions
Some UK Athletics-affiliated clubs receive a limited number of bibs to distribute among members. Additionally, various competitions and giveaways (often from sponsors) can offer last-minute spots closer to race day.
ENTER THE 2026 LONDON MARATHON BALLOT HERE!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if I’m in the ballot?
You’ll receive a confirmation email after submitting your application. If you opted to donate your entry fee, you’ll also get a payment receipt.
When will I know if I got in?
Results will be emailed to all applicants in July 2025. Be sure to check your spam folder.
What if I’m successful?
You’ll get an email confirming your place. If you didn’t donate your entry fee, you’ll need to pay the full £79.99 to confirm.
What if I’m unsuccessful in both ballots?
You’ll receive a premium winter running top and the warm glow of knowing your donation supports community fitness across the UK.
What are the prize purses like?
In 2025, winners took home £41,000 each. Bonuses up to £112,000 were on offer for breaking course records or running exceptionally fast times (e.g., sub-2:02 for men, sub-2:15 for women).
Can I defer my entry to 2027?
In most cases, deferrals are not allowed unless due to medical reasons, and require documentation. The policies may evolve, so always check the official deferral rules.
