London Marathon Eyes Two Day Expansion to 100000 Runners

Organizers of the London Marathon are in advanced discussions over a major reform that would see the race expand from one day to two starting in 2027, with total participation expected to reach 100,000—a new event record.

Under the proposal, the race could take place on April 24 and 25, 2027, with around 50,000 amateur runners competing each day. This would nearly double the current field size to meet surging demand.

The event structure would also be adjusted, with the men’s and women’s elite races held on separate days to enhance visibility and improve organizational efficiency.

Interest in the London Marathon has continued to soar. For the 2026 race, applications exceeded 1.1 million, but only about 5% of applicants secured a place through the ballot.

Organizers believe that expanding capacity would allow more runners to participate while also boosting the event’s charitable impact. In 2025, the marathon raised a record £87.5 million for charity.

The proposal is still subject to approval by relevant authorities. For now, organizers remain focused on staging the 2026 London Marathon on April 26, with details for the 2027 event expected to be announced after this year’s race concludes.