London marathon breaks own fundraising world record as donations top £87.5m

Ed Griffiths
Fri, 01 May 2026 19:40:12 +0000

The 2026 London Marathon has set a new global record as the largest annual single-day charitable fundraiser, organisers have confirmed.

The event, held in the capital last Sunday, has already raised £87.5million for good causes, eclipsing the £87.3million milestone set during the 2025 race.

According to marathon officials, the final fundraising figure will be revealed in September and is expected to surpass £90million.

The achievement caps what proved to be a remarkable day of record-breaking performances across multiple categories, cementing the London Marathon's position as the world's premier charitable running event.

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Kenyan athlete Sabastian Sawe made history by becoming the first runner to complete a marathon in under two hours during an official competition.

His winning time of one hour, 59 minutes and 30 seconds established a new world record, shattering what many considered an insurmountable barrier in distance running.

Ethiopian star Tigst Assefa delivered an equally impressive performance in the women's race.

She bettered her own women-only world record, crossing the finish line in two hours, 15 minutes and 41 seconds.

Both elite performances contributed to what organisers described as an unprecedented day for the event, with records tumbling across multiple disciplines.

The race also claimed the Guinness World Record for marathon participation, with 59,830 runners completing the 26.2-mile course.

Hugh Brasher, chief executive of London Marathon Events, said it "was an extraordinary day of world records, from the elite men and women running such extraordinary times, to the participation numbers, and now in fundraising".

He added: "It is fantastic to know we have already surpassed our £87.3million world record from 2025."

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Mr Brasher expressed gratitude to all who had raised money and contributed.

He noted that the funds would benefit a diverse array of charitable organisations.

The National Autistic Society has been named as the official charity partner for the 2027 TCS London Marathon.

The organisation announced on Wednesday: "We're excited to announce that we're the official charity of the year for the 2027 TCS London Marathon."

It added: "We aim to make 2027 the most inclusive marathon yet and that's just the start."

The charity plans to launch its It's Time To Show Up campaign, encouraging participation in a nationwide movement supporting autistic people and demonstrating how modest adjustments can create a significant impact.

Those hoping to secure a place in next year's event have until 4pm on Friday to enter the ballot.