The organizers of the 2026 London Marathon have revealed that the event has broken its own fundraising record. This year’s marathon has already raised over £87.5 million for charity, surpassing last year’s record of £87.3 million. The final total is expected to exceed £90 million when announced in September.
The race, held last Sunday in the capital, witnessed Sabastian Sawe become the first athlete to complete the 26.2-mile distance in under two hours in an official competition, setting a new world record of one hour, 59 minutes, and 30 seconds near Buckingham Palace. Ethiopian runner Tigst Assefa also achieved a new women’s world record with a time of two hours, 15 minutes, and 41 seconds. Additionally, the event saw a new Guinness World Record set for the most marathon finishers, with 59,830 participants crossing the finish line.
Hugh Brasher, CEO of London Marathon Events, expressed delight at surpassing the previous fundraising record and praised the participants and donors for their support. Plans are underway for a two-day marathon event next year, aiming to raise over £130 million for charity and generate £400 million in social and economic benefits. Discussions with the BBC for comprehensive TV coverage and consultations with various stakeholders are ongoing to finalize the plans.
The National Autistic Society has been selected as the official charity for the 2027 London Marathon. The organization aims to make the 2027 marathon the most inclusive yet through its “It’s Time To Show Up” campaign, promoting small actions that can have a significant impact for autistic individuals.
