London Marathon 2027 ballot is OPEN – and your chances could be doubled

The public ballot is now open for next year’s London Marathon – and organisers have confirmed they are hoping it could be a two day event in 2027.

The ballot opened at 09:00 BST today (Friday 24 April) and will close just over a week later at 16:00 on Friday 1 May – here is the link.

This year’s race takes place on Sunday and for the first time received over a million ballot applications.

It is a completely random draw, just like the National Lottery. The ballot results will be announced by early July. 

Double chance

But there could be a significant change in 12 months time with a press release confirming: “Together with partners and stakeholders, London Marathon Events is exploring the possibility of the 2027 TCS London Marathon taking place across two days.

“Should permission be granted for this one‑off two‑day format, all ballot entrants would automatically be entered into the ballot for both the Saturday and Sunday events (though they would only be able to run one event), significantly increasing their chances of securing a place in the 2027 TCS London Marathon.”

Last year the chance of a place worked out at around 2%.

Life-changing first step?

Hugh Brasher, CEO of London Marathon Events, said: “The TCS London Marathon is one of the most iconic and inclusive sporting events in the world and anyone can be part of it.

“Everyday heroes can stand shoulder to shoulder on the same Start Line as the fastest marathon runners on the planet, cheered on by hundreds of thousands of spectators lining the streets of London.

“It is a day like no other when humanity comes together with community, unity and purpose.”

He added: “One of the incredible things [about the 2026 TCS London Marathon Ballot], was that 860,000 UK people applied in eight days – and more than a third of them were aged 18 to 29.

“I think that marathon running is so popular because it genuinely brings people together. And having these real-life experiences is what the world needs more of – and people are reaching out for more.

“We are far more similar than we are different; that’s the reality. You meet people [around the world] and you realise how kind they are.

“The vast, vast majority of people are unbelievably welcoming. That’s what the London Marathon shows; that’s what marathons around the world show. And I think we need more of that community spirit and more of that togetherness.

“Entering the 2027 TCS London Marathon ballot could be the first step towards becoming part of something truly life changing.”

More details on the 2027 London Marathon ballot are here.