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🏃♂️ London Marathon 2026 Ballot Now Open
The official ballot for the 2026 TCS London Marathon is now open. Starting today, Friday, April 25, 2025, runners from across the globe can apply for a chance to take part in this iconic race. The event itself is scheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2026.
📅 Important Dates
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Ballot Opens: Friday, April 25, 2025
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Ballot Closes: Friday, May 2, 2025
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Results Notification: June or July 2025
The ballot is open for a short window of just one week, so make sure to submit your entry before it closes. Applicants will receive an email about whether they’ve been successful in the summer of 2025.
📝 How to Enter the Ballot
Entering the ballot is a straightforward process:
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Visit the official London Marathon website.
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Fill out the online application form.
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Submit your details before the deadline.
There is no cost to enter the ballot itself. However, if you are selected, you’ll be required to pay the entry fee, which is £69.99 for UK participants and £146 for international runners.
🎯 Your Chances of Getting a Spot
The London Marathon is one of the most popular marathons in the world, with hundreds of thousands of hopefuls entering each year. In 2025, there were over 840,000 applicants for the ballot, which means competition is tough.
However, entering the ballot is completely free, and everyone has an equal chance of being selected. Even though it’s highly competitive, it’s worth giving it a shot!
💡 Alternative Ways to Enter
If you don’t get selected in the ballot, there are still other ways to participate in the marathon:
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Charity Places: Many charities offer guaranteed entry if you agree to fundraise for their cause.
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Good for Age: UK runners with qualifying times can apply for a guaranteed spot through this route.
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Tour Operators: International runners can enter through approved tour operators, which may include additional services like travel and accommodation.
