London Marathon Considers Historic Two‑Day Format for 2027
Hugh Brasher, chief executive of London Marathon Events, confirmed that discussions are underway about staging a one‑off two‑day marathon in 2027. Under the proposed model, elite women would compete on Saturday and elite men on Sunday, a split that has never been attempted in the race’s 46‑year history.
Proposal Details
Brasher explained that the idea is still under negotiation with multiple stakeholders, including city authorities, sports federations and broadcast partners. “We have a lot of plans,” he said. “Discussions are taking place this week and next. While we hope we will be approved, it is a huge undertaking, not only from our team’s perspective but also from London’s perspective.”
A key factor in the talks is the crowded sporting calendar for the capital. The same weekend in 2027 already hosts an FA Cup semi‑final on Saturday and the Tour de France Femmes later in the week, which would require careful coordination to avoid clashes over venues, transport and security resources.
Should the proposal receive final approval, Brasher stressed that the two‑day format would be a singular event. “It is absolutely an isolated incident,” he noted, adding that the organisation has been researching the concept for some time and hopes to announce a decision soon.
Economic and Charitable Impact
Research commissioned from Sheffield Hallam University suggests that a split‑day London Marathon could generate substantial benefits:
- Over £130 million raised for charity.
- Approximately £400 million in wider economic impact for London.
For context, the 2025 edition set a new record by raising £87.3 million for good causes, reinforcing the marathon’s status as the world’s largest annual one‑day fundraising event.
Participant Numbers and Elite Fields
Around 59,000 runners are expected to cross the finish line on Sunday’s 42.195 km course, which would establish a new world record for marathon participation. Last year’s race saw 56,640 finishers, a figure that earned a Guinness World Record for the most finishers in a single marathon.
Brasher highlighted the excitement surrounding the elite competition:
- Men’s race: defending champion Sebastian Sawe, Jacob Kiplimo, Joshua Cheptegei making his marathon debut, and Olympic champion Tamirat Tola.
- Women’s race: defending champion Tigst Assefa and New York Marathon winner Hellen Obiri.
He added, “My personal favourite for once – usually it was the women’s tournaments – I think it will be the men’s race for once … Sebastian Sawe, Jacob Kiplimo, Joshua Cheptegei in his marathon debut and Tamirat Tola as Olympic champion, I think it will be an incredible race.”
As the London Marathon continues to evolve, the potential two‑day format represents both a logistical challenge and an opportunity to amplify its charitable reach and global profile. Stakeholders will weigh the benefits against the city’s packed sporting schedule before any final decision is made.
