TCS London Marathon will be a two-day event in 2027, but organisers say it’s for one year only

If you’ve been hoping for a place in the ballot then 2027 could finally be the year you get to lace up your race-day running shoes and take to the streets of London, as organisers announce the race will be held over two days.

Taking place on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 April 2027, this one‑off change will see London Marathon Events transform the TCS London Marathon into a spectacular two-day celebration.

The unique Double format will welcome 100,000 participants across the two days and will allow a record number of participants to take on a single marathon, helping to meet the extraordinary demand for places with a whopping 1.33 million people entered into the ballot for next year’s event.  

Ballot draw

Everyone who has already applied to take part next year will be entered into a ballot for both the Saturday and Sunday. Participants will not be allowed to take part in the in-person event on both days, though they will be able to complete the TCS London Marathon one day and the virtual event, TCS London Marathon MyWay, on the other.  

Ballot results will be announced in early July 2026, with places allocated through a completely random draw. All additional income generated by the Double will be distributed by the London Marathon Foundation to projects that inspire activity for children and young people across London and the UK.  

In previous years the event has also offered an opportunity for triathletes to try their skill over the classic course and coming early in the year, is a good indicator of form for summer iron-distance racing.

In 2025 Alex Yee put in a storming performance on the course and in 2026 appeared again as a pacer.

Once in a generation event

Hugh Brasher, CEO of London Marathon Events said:  

“The 2027 TCS London Marathon Double is our most ambitious evolution to date – a once-in-a-generation one-time-only reimagining of what a marathon and city-wide celebration of activity can be.  

“By expanding to 100,000 runners across two days, we’re opening the door for more people, more charities and more communities to take part in the world’s greatest marathon. We believe that more than £150m can be raised for good causes and the UK economy will have a £400m social and economic benefit.  

“We are grateful for the vision and support of the Mayor of London, the councils on the route, the emergency services, and all the stakeholders involved who have given their support to enable this world first event to be held for London and the UK.”