The London Marathon is set to undergo a unique transformation in 2027, spanning two days to accommodate a larger number of participants and generate a significant economic impact. The decision to expand the event came after a record-breaking 1.33 million individuals applied for the next year’s marathon, prompting organizers to host two separate races, enabling 100,000 runners to join the 2027 London Marathon.
Scheduled for Saturday, April 24, and Sunday, April 25, the extended event aims to raise over £150 million for charities and inject £400 million into the UK economy, as stated by Hugh Brasher, the chief executive of London Marathon Events (LME). Applicants for the upcoming marathon will automatically enter a ballot for both days, with the outcomes to be disclosed in early July.
Brasher expressed excitement about the 2027 London Marathon’s innovative approach, emphasizing the opportunity it presents for increased participation from diverse groups, charities, and communities. He anticipates a substantial social and economic benefit, with the potential to surpass £150 million in charitable donations and contribute significantly to the UK economy.
Acknowledging the collaborative effort behind this initiative, Brasher expressed gratitude to the Mayor of London, local councils, emergency services, and all stakeholders for their support in making the two-day event a reality for London and the UK. Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, hailed the decision, labeling London as the global hub for sports and welcoming the expansion of the iconic London Marathon into a dual-day spectacle for 2027.
In 2026, the London Marathon boasted a record 59,830 finishers and raised over £90 million, solidifying its status as the world’s largest annual single-day fundraising event. The upcoming 2027 marathon plans to feature elite women, elite female wheelchair athletes, championship, and ‘good for age’ women on one day, while the elite men, elite male wheelchair athletes, championship, and ‘good for age’ men will showcase their talents on the other day.
Brasher revealed that the concept of a two-day event had been in development for nine years, with the initial idea conceived in 2017. Although the original intention was to implement the plan in 2020, it faced regulatory obstacles at that time.
