The 2025 London Marathon could be the biggest in history with 56,000+ runners, record applicants, and the strongest elite field.
The 2025 London Marathon is set to become the biggest marathon ever staged, with over 56,000 runners expected to complete the 26.2-mile course. If achieved, this would break the current record of 55,646 finishers, set by the New York Marathon in 2023.
Since its inception in 1981, the London Marathon has consistently grown in scale, participation, and prestige. Now, in its 45th edition, the race is set to deliver its most monumental moment yet.
But what exactly makes this year so special? Here are five key reasons why the 2025 London Marathon could break a world record.
1. A record-breaking number of participants
One of the most significant indicators that the 2025 London Marathon is on course to break records is its massive number of applicants.
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More than 840,000 people applied to take part this year—an astonishing increase from the 578,304 applications for the 2024 edition. This shattered the previous world record for marathon ballot entries, reflecting the growing appeal of the event.
Among UK applicants, there has been a notable 105% increase in entries from the 20-29 age group, alongside a nearly equal gender split (49% female applicants).
This demographic shift highlights the marathon’s widening appeal and suggests a fresh wave of first-time runners who could help push total finishers past the 56,000 mark.
2. The greatest elite field in London Marathon history
The elite field for the 2025 London Marathon is being hailed as the strongest ever assembled. Featuring world record-holders, Olympic champions, and marathon legends, the level of competition is unmatched.
In the men’s race, Eliud Kipchoge, a four-time London Marathon champion and the second-fastest marathoner of all time (2:01:09), makes his return after last competing in 2020. He will face off against marathon giants like Kenenisa Bekele (2:01:41), Sabastian Sawe (2:02:05), and defending champion Alexander Mutiso Munyao (2:03:11).
The women’s field is equally historic, featuring the three fastest female marathoners ever: Ruth Chepngetich (2:10:57), Tigst Assefa (2:11:53), and Sifan Hassan (2:13:44). With Olympic champions like Tamirat Tola and debutants like British star Eilish McColgan, the stage is set for a showdown that could see records shattered.
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3. An unparalleled global platform
As a World Athletics Platinum Label road race, the London Marathon is one of the most prestigious races on the planet. The 2025 edition is expected to attract millions of viewers worldwide, with increased television coverage, social media engagement, and live-streaming accessibility.
The marathon also serves as a crucial stepping stone for many elite runners preparing for the 2025 World Championships and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games aftermath. With the stakes higher than ever, athletes are likely to push themselves to extraordinary limits, potentially leading to record-breaking performances.
4. Increased charitable impact and community engagement
The London Marathon is not just about elite competition—it’s also one of the biggest fundraising events in the world. Each year, the marathon raises tens of millions of pounds for charities, with runners taking part for a cause close to their hearts.
With 56,000 participants expected, 2025 could set a new fundraising record, further cementing the marathon’s role as a force for good. CEO of London Marathon Events, Hugh Brasher, has emphasized the importance of this year’s race in uniting communities and celebrating humanity.
In addition to fundraising, the event will showcase new sustainability initiatives, such as reducing plastic waste, using recyclable race bibs, and encouraging public transport use for participants and spectators. The marathon’s commitment to social and environmental responsibility enhances its global appeal.
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5. The perfect course and conditions for fast times
The London Marathon course is renowned for being one of the fastest in the world. With its flat terrain, ideal weather conditions in April, and enthusiastic crowd support, it’s no surprise that some of the greatest marathon performances in history have happened here.
In 2019, Eliud Kipchoge set the course record of 2:02:37, and the women’s record (2:17:01) has also been frequently challenged. Given the depth of talent in the 2025 elite field, there’s a strong chance both records could be under threat once again.
Additionally, the 2025 London Marathon will feature new pacing strategies and technology to help athletes achieve their fastest possible times. With favorable race-day conditions, a world record-breaking performance is more likely than ever.