The London Marathon is planning a groundbreaking two-day event in 2027, potentially opening the streets of the capital to up to 100,000 runners across Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 April. Permission has yet to be granted for this innovative format, which Hugh Brasher, head of London Marathon Events, insists would be a one-off. London Mayor Sadiq Khan supports the idea as talks with key stakeholders continue.
How the Two-Day Marathon Would Work
If approved, there would be two mass starts: a Saturday London Marathon for the first time in the event's history, using the same traditional route from Greenwich to Westminster, followed by another on Sunday. The ballot for next year's event opened on Friday and closes on 1 May at 4pm. Applicants are automatically entered for both days and, if successful, placed into one day only. Additional charity and good-for-age places would be available on both days. Up to 50,000 people could take part each day, with organisers aiming for balanced numbers. The men's and elite women's races would take place a day apart.
Benefits: Charity, Economy, and Society
Brasher estimates a two-day event would raise over £130m for charities, more than doubling last year's record, while research from Sheffield Hallam University predicts a £400m economic boost. Running has surged in popularity since the pandemic, offering physical and mental health benefits and community through running clubs. Of the 840,000 UK-based ballot entrants for this year's marathon, over a third were aged 18-29, with women making up the majority in that category. Brasher notes a growing desire for real-life experiences in an age of increasing screen time.
Risks: Diluting the Magic and Local Impact
However, concerns exist that a two-day event could dilute the magic and lose the love of local residents. The London Marathon enjoys strong support and a famous atmosphere, but an additional day of street closures could impact residents and businesses, especially on a Saturday when patterns differ from Sunday. The in-race experience might suffer if crowds are spread over two days. Andrew Smith, former London Marathon race director, questions whether it would dilute the magic, while also worrying that events in the north could be left behind.
Balancing Growth and Tradition
Brasher uses a pizza analogy: rather than arguing over slices of a seven-inch pizza, they aim to make a 12-inch pizza for all to enjoy. But he insists that if successful, the two-day format would be a one-off, not a permanent expansion. The coming weeks will involve consultations with emergency services, Transport for London, and affected boroughs.
