A record-breaking number of participants are taking part in the 2026 TCS London Marathon today, with over 59,000 runners expected to complete the 26.2-mile course through the capital. This follows an unprecedented 1.13 million applications for the public ballot, a 36% increase from 2025.
Prize Money for Elite Athletes
The London Marathon offers substantial prize money for elite competitors. In 2024, the event made history by becoming the first marathon to ensure equal prize money distribution between able-bodied athletes and wheelchair racers. For the 2026 event, the elite men's and women's able-bodied races, as well as the men's and women's wheelchair races, all offer over £40,000 ($55,000) for first place, over £22,000 ($30,000) for second place, and over £16,000 ($22,500) for third place.
Additional bonuses are available for runners who achieve sub-2:02 (men) or sub-2:15 (women) times, and extra bonuses for breaking course records in both able-bodied and wheelchair categories.
World Records and Quirky Attempts
While no official world record attempts have been confirmed for the 2026 race, many participants hope their unique efforts will boost fundraising for charities. Last year's event saw over 40 new Guinness World Records, including runners dressed as aliens, crustaceans, pirates, birds, and traffic cones. The TCS London Marathon website will provide a roundup of all records broken during the event.
With a record 1,133,813 applications for the public ballot—a 36% increase from 2025—the 2026 London Marathon has already set a new benchmark for participation interest.
