London Marathon organisers are exploring a historic two-day format for 2027 after 1.1 million people applied to run in 2026, a record 36% rise on last year.
With only 57,449 starters in 2025, fewer than 5% of applicants will secure a place this year.
A weekend edition could allow up to 100,000 runners, doubling participation.
A spokesperson said the marathon is “the world’s most popular” and that talks with partners are ongoing. Mayor Sadiq Khan’s office welcomed the idea, calling London “the sporting capital of the world.”
Organisers remain focused on delivering the 2026 race on Sunday, 26 April, before finalising plans for the expanded 2027 edition.
