The London Marathon will make history in 2027 by becoming a two-day event for the first time, transforming one of the world’s most iconic sporting occasions. The marathon will take place on Saturday, 24 and Sunday, 25 April, marking a significant departure from the traditional single-day format that has defined the race for decades.
Unprecedented Expansion
This one-off edition will enable 100,000 people to participate in the London Marathon, a substantial increase from typical participation numbers. The expansion reflects efforts to make the event more accessible while maintaining its prestige and global appeal.
Economic and Charitable Impact
The two-day format is projected to deliver substantial benefits across multiple sectors. The event is expected to generate over £150 million for charities, reinforcing the marathon’s position as one of the world’s most successful fundraising platforms. Beyond charitable contributions, the expanded marathon is anticipated to provide a £400 million boost to the UK economy, demonstrating the significant economic footprint of this major sporting event.
Hugh Brasher, Chief Executive of London Marathon Events, and Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, are leading the initiative to deliver this historic expansion. Their involvement underscores the scale and importance of transforming the marathon into a two-day spectacle that will affect the broader London community and economy.
The decision to split the marathon across two consecutive days represents a bold reimagining of how the event can accommodate greater participation while maintaining the experience that has made it a centerpiece of the UK sporting calendar. This format allows organisers to manage logistics, crowd control, and infrastructure challenges that accompany welcoming such a significant increase in runners.