© Thomas Lovelock / London Marathon Events
How do I register for the London Marathon?
At the end of April, running enthusiasts turn their attention to England. The London Marathon is one of the most prestigious in the world. Every year, over 50,000 runners head to Britain for a unique sporting experience. As a member of the exclusive World Marathon Majors club, the London Marathon has everything it takes to be great. Atmosphere, course, performance, spectators, organization, the event ticks all the boxes. But before starting the London Marathon, you’ll face the first long challenge: registration.
✓ How to sign up for the London Marathon and get the coveted spot? We explain everything in this article.
| The lottery: not always a winning bet
Similar to other World Marathon Majors like the New York Marathon, Chicago or Boston, the London Marathon is subject to a lottery system. With 578,374 lottery applications and 55,000 spots, this gives you an idea of the odds. There are bound to be some lucky ones and inevitably some disappointed ones. That said, the lottery is one way to secure a spot for the London Marathon. Registrations for the lottery for the next edition generally open right after the race, at the end of April. You then have one week to submit your application. You’ll need to be patient and wait until October to know the lottery results.
| Charity programs: support a cause
For runners who are compassionate and want to support a charity of their choice, the charity bibs are an excellent solution to run the London Marathon. You simply need to commit to one of the event’s partner charities. After that, you raise a minimum amount of donations that will confirm your registration. The charity program is comprehensive as it includes personalized training and full sports gear. In 2024, £73,000,000 was raised. Let’s be honest, for those less fortunate in the lottery, it’s a great way to get a spot.
| Travel agencies: turn the race into a real trip
The London Marathon organizers offer an option to go through official travel agencies, partners of the event, to secure your spot and above all experience a complete and unique British adventure. Travel enthusiasts who love comfort and discovery will enjoy the London Marathon experience even more intensely. The travel agency offers all-inclusive packages (bib, accommodation, sightseeing…). No more stress, everything is organized for you. While the trip might be slightly more expensive, it’s perfect for those who wish to combine travel and sports.
Our advice: plan your trip well in advance with the agency.
| Qualification by performance: “Good For Age” bibs
Direct qualification, ideal to avoid the stress of the lottery. As the name suggests, direct qualification is a form of fast track for those who value performance. The London Marathon has implemented what is called “Good For Age” which offers slots to the fastest based on their age category. Certain minimum standards are required to obtain your spot. However, the Good For Age spots are limited. Unfortunately, the Good For Age program is only available for UK residents.
| The advantage of being a Local Legend
Once again for UK residents, there’s an additional opportunity. Some sports clubs and specifically athletics clubs collaborate with the TCS London Marathon. As a result, they have bib entries for the event.
As you can see, being on the starting line of the London Marathon is already a kind of marathon itself. To register for the London Marathon, be patient and determined. The London Marathon finisher medal is well-deserved.
✓ Find all the details on how to register for the London Marathon
