The London Marathon could shift to an earlier slot in the calendar to combat increasing temperatures during the British spring, according to the event's CEO, Hugh Brasher. Speaking on a media call, Brasher acknowledged that climate conditions are a growing concern, and a date change is being considered to ensure runner safety and comfort.
Weather Challenges
The 2025 London Marathon saw temperatures reach around 22°C (72°F), making it one of the warmest editions in history. The 2018 race remains the hottest on record at 24.2°C (76°F). This year's event, scheduled for Sunday, 26 April, is expected to have more favourable conditions, with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 17°C throughout the race.
Historical Context
Brasher noted that the marathon originally took place on 29 March in 1981, when Dick Beardsley and Inge Simonsen won the men's race and Joyce Smith won the women's race. He emphasised that organisers are constantly evaluating the calendar based on data and health considerations.
Sustainability Efforts
Brasher addressed the Paris Marathon's controversial decision to ban single-use water cups and bottles, instead implementing a refill system. He confirmed that London Marathon is observing such innovations but remains committed to its current approach, which provides runners with Buxton Natural Mineral Water every three miles from miles 3 to 12, then every two miles from miles 12 to 24.
“We have an employee who ran the Paris Marathon to gain feedback,” Brasher stated. “Sustainability involves many factors. We are still the only marathon in the world that mandates a carbon removal tax for international participants. The funds are used to remove carbon from the atmosphere.”
Holistic Approach
Brasher highlighted the marathon's comprehensive sustainability strategy, including the use of recycled plastic bottles, a circular recycling system, electric vehicles, and solar generators. He also mentioned ongoing research into eco-friendly finisher T-shirts. “It’s not just about plastic bottles,” he added.
While no final decision has been made, Brasher confirmed that moving the marathon to an earlier date remains a viable option as global temperatures continue to rise.
