If you’ve entered the London Marathon ballot for 2027, you’re not alone… not even close.
This year, a record-breaking 1,338,544 people entered the ballot — the highest number ever for any marathon in the world.
Let that sink in for a moment.
Over 1.3 million people, all taking that same step: putting their name down, backing themselves, and thinking “I’m going to give this a go.”
And that, in itself, is worth recognising.
It’s Bigger Than Just One Race
What these numbers really show is something much bigger than London Marathon itself.
- More than 1 million UK runners entered
- People from over 200 countries applied
- There’s a near 50/50 split between men and women
Running isn’t just growing — it’s becoming one of the most inclusive, accessible and shared challenges out there.
It’s not about ability.
It’s not about pace.
It’s about people choosing to move, challenge themselves, and be part of something.
Why So Many People Want In
The 2026 London Marathon certainly played its part.
It was a landmark year:
- A record number of finishers
- Millions raised for charity once again
- Historic elite performances that captured attention worldwide
But beyond the headlines, it’s the atmosphere that sticks.
The crowds.
The support.
The stories behind every runner.
It’s one of the few events where first-timers, charity runners, and experienced athletes all stand on the same start line, taking on the same challenge.
The Honest Reality
With over 1.3 million entries, the truth is simple:
Most people won’t get a place through the ballot.
That can feel disappointing — especially if you’ve already started thinking about training, fundraising, or what race day might look like.
But here’s something I always remind runners:
👉 Your goal isn’t defined by one race.
London is incredible, but it’s not the only way to achieve something meaningful.
What I’d Say to My Runners
Whether you get in or not, you’ve already done something important.
You’ve:
- Set a goal
- Put yourself forward
- Started thinking about what you’re capable of
That mindset is far more powerful than one race entry.
If you do get a place — amazing. We build a plan, we stay consistent, and we enjoy the journey.
If you don’t — we pivot.
- There are other brilliant marathons, many much easier and cheaper to get into!
- There are other distances to target
- There are other ways to challenge yourself
And often, those “unexpected routes” end up being just as rewarding.
Could London Get Bigger?
Because of the demand, organisers are even considering making the 2027 event a two-day marathon.
If that happens, it could open up more opportunities for runners — while keeping that unique London atmosphere.
I'm honestely unsure of how to feel about this - will it "spoil" marathin day being spread over a weekend? We’ll have to wait and see.
Final Thoughts
This record isn’t just a statistic.
It’s a reminder of how many people are:
- Starting their running journey
- Setting big goals
- Backing themselves to do something difficult
And that’s what really matters.
From Me to You
If you entered the ballot — well done.
That’s the first step.
Now we focus on what’s next, whatever that looks like for you.
Stay consistent. Stay patient. And remember — progress doesn’t depend on one event.
I’m here to help you get there.
Steve