London Marathon Sets New Record with Over 1.1 Million Applications for 2026

The London Marathon continues to captivate the global running community, as organizers announced a record-breaking 1,133,813 applications for the 2026 race. This figure represents a 36% increase from the previous year’s record of 840,318 applications for the 2025 event, underscoring the marathon’s unparalleled appeal . 

“This is an absolutely staggering total which reaffirms London as by far the most popular marathon on the planet,” said Hugh Brasher, CEO of London Marathon Events. “Marathon Day is always an extraordinary and inspirational day when we celebrate the very best of humanity.”  

The 2025 edition of the marathon further cemented its legendary status. A record 56,640 runners crossed the finish line, setting a new world record for the highest number of finishers in a marathon. This achievement surpasses the previous record of 55,646 set by the New York City Marathon in 2024 .

In the women’s elite race, Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa delivered a historic performance, completing the course in 2:15:50. This time set a new women’s-only marathon world record, surpassing the previous mark of 2:16:16 established by Peres Jepchirchir in 2024 .

The men’s elite race saw Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe claim victory with a time of 2:02:27, the second-fastest in London Marathon history, trailing only Kelvin Kiptum’s 2:01:25 set in 2023 .

Beyond athletic achievements, the 2025 marathon also made a significant philanthropic impact. Participants raised over £75 million (approximately $99.9 million USD) for various charities, reinforcing the event’s status as the world’s largest single-day fundraising event .

With its blend of elite competition, mass participation, and charitable fundraising, the London Marathon continues to set the standard for global marathon events.

posted Sunday May 4th
by Boris Baron