Sawe’s achievement is monumental. He not only broke Kiptum’s time but also outpaced Yomif Kejelcha, who finished as runner-up with a time of 1:59:41. This makes Kejelcha the second man ever to complete a marathon under two hours in race conditions.

The podium was rounded out by Jacob Kiplimo, who crossed the finish line at 2:00:28. All three top finishers surpassed the previous record, showcasing the exceptional talent among elite marathon runners.

This year’s London Marathon saw approximately 56,000 amateur runners participating, emphasizing its status as a charity marathon. The event continues to draw attention not just for its elite competitors but also for its community spirit.

Toby Freeman, another participant, finished his race in 4:49:18. Reflecting on his experience, he shared, “I was thinking of my brother, who passed away, and how it was a privilege to just be running.” This sentiment resonates deeply with many who run for personal or charitable reasons.

Sebastian Vettel, known for his Formula 1 career, completed his first marathon with a respectable time of 2:59:08. Meanwhile, fitness influencer Joe Wicks ran last year’s event in 5:54:59, highlighting the diverse range of participants at this iconic race.

The London Marathon may undergo changes in format next year; discussions about potentially holding it over two days are reportedly at an advanced stage. Observers anticipate that such changes could enhance participation and viewer engagement.

The first man to run a marathon in under two hours was Eliud Kipchoge in 2019—but that event was not record-eligible due to controlled conditions. Sawe’s performance sets a new benchmark for future marathons and redefines what elite athletes can achieve.

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The ballot for the TCS London Marathon opened on April 24, 2026, and will close at 4pm on May 1, 2026. This gives hopeful entrants just one week to submit their applications online for free.

Those selected through the ballot will pay an entry fee of £79.99. Runners can also opt for a double entry, which costs £99.98—offering them two chances to secure a coveted spot in this prestigious event.

In recent years, interest in the marathon has surged dramatically. A record-breaking 1,133,813 people applied for a ballot place for the 2026 marathon alone. This figure highlights the growing popularity of marathon training and fundraising efforts associated with such events.

The results of the ballot will be announced by early July 2026. Entrants who are not successful in either ballot will receive a free hydration vest valued at over £100—a consolation prize that underscores the event’s commitment to participants.

“The winners are drawn at random, so everyone has an equal shot,” officials stated. This ensures that each entry is treated fairly within the competitive landscape of marathon running.

But what happens if the two-day format is not approved? Officials have yet to confirm whether this change will be implemented, leaving many runners uncertain about their plans.

As marathon training intensifies in preparation for April 25, 2027, participants are eager to know how many spots will be available across two days—if permitted.

The introduction of a two-day format could revolutionize how marathons are organized in London and beyond. It may also set a precedent for future events worldwide.

With fundraising efforts ramping up alongside training schedules, this year’s marathon promises to be one of the most competitive yet.

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Ore Oduba is preparing to run the TCS London Marathon on April 26, 2026, in memory of his late sister, Lola Oduba, who tragically died by suicide in April 2025. This decision marks a significant personal journey for Ore, who previously described running a marathon as an impossible task.

In the wake of his sister’s death, Ore’s perspective on life has shifted dramatically. He has committed to raising funds for the charity Smartphone Free Childhood, an organization dedicated to promoting healthier childhoods free from excessive screen time.

Ore, now 40 years old, has undergone months of rigorous training to prepare for the 26.2-mile marathon. He has expressed deep emotional ties to this event, stating, “Oh, my sister’s so proud of me,” reflecting the motivation behind his participation.

Before Lola’s passing, she found joy in running during the lockdown, which has inspired Ore to take on this challenge. He remarked, “I always said I’d never take on this challenge,” indicating the profound impact of his sister’s memory on his decision.

As the marathon approaches, Ore’s commitment to this cause has resonated with many, and he has received support from various quarters. He has stated, “I’m gonna have to run the bloody marathon for you, aren’t I?” showcasing his determination to honor his sister’s legacy.

Ore has made it clear that he does not intend to run the marathon annually, emphasizing the unique significance of this particular event. His journey is not just about completing a race but also about raising awareness and funds for mental health issues.

Observers note that Ore’s participation in the marathon is a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the impact of personal loss. His efforts are expected to inspire others to engage in conversations about mental health and support related charities.

As the date draws nearer, Ore’s story continues to capture the attention of the public, highlighting the intersection of personal grief and community action. His training and fundraising efforts are a testament to his resilience and commitment to making a difference.

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