2025 London Marathon expected to surpass world record for participants

The 2025 London Marathon is poised to break the world record for the largest number of participants, with more than 56,000 runners expected to complete the race on April 27, surpassing the current record of 55,646 finishers set by the New York City Marathon. Organizers reported a record 840,318 applications for the ballot, with nearly half of applicants being women. This year's event marks the marathon's 45th edition, a milestone that CEO Hugh Brasher hopes will be celebrated by achieving this record. Notable athletes such as Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge and world record holder Ruth Chepngetich are set to compete, adding significant excitement to the event. The marathon has a long history of fundraising, having raised over £1.3 billion for charity since its inception in 1981. Brasher emphasized that the event is not just about breaking records, but also about promoting fitness and community spirit.