The London Marathon set the record for the largest number of finishers in a marathon last year

London Marathon organisers are considering staging next year's event across two days.

No approval has yet been given but event organisers say they are exploring ways to enable more people to take part.

It comes after a record 1.1 million people applied in the public ballot to participate in the 2026 edition - a 36% increase on the previous year.

A London Marathon Events spokesperson said: "The London Marathon is the world's most popular marathon, and we are continually exploring innovative ways to enable more people to take part, while delivering positive benefits for London.

"Together with our partners and stakeholders, we are looking at the intention for the 2027 London Marathon to take place across two days.

"Our immediate focus is on delivering an incredible 2026 London Marathon on Sunday, 26 April and ensuring every participant has an amazing experience."

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There were a record-breaking 56,640 finishers at the 2025 event.

Based on the total number of starters (57,449) last year, only about 5% of the total number of applicants will get the chance to complete the course this year.

The Guardian, external reports that talks are at an advanced stage for a one-off event to be held, which could allow 100,000 runners to take part over the weekend.

A spokesperson for Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: "London is the sporting capital of the world and the Mayor looks forward to working with London Marathon and partners to consider if it might be possible to host an event that will run across two days next year."

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