How to Enter the London Marathon Ballot: Key Information for 2025

The London Marathon ballot is one of the most sought-after entry systems for marathon runners worldwide. With hundreds of thousands applying each year for a spot, the ballot system is competitive yet offers an equal chance for all who enter. Here’s everything you need to know about the London Marathon ballot 2025, including how it works, when the results are announced, and other ways to secure a place in this iconic race.

1. Overview of the London Marathon Ballot System

The London Marathon ballot operates as a random draw, much like a lottery. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or someone taking on the challenge for the first time, everyone has an equal opportunity to secure a place in the race through the ballot.

• Random Draw: Every applicant who enters the ballot has the same chance of being selected. It’s not based on running times or qualifications.

• Entry Fee: Entering the ballot is free, but successful applicants will need to pay the standard entry fee of £69.99 for UK residents.

• When Does the Ballot Open?: The London Marathon ballot 2025 opened on April 20, 4, the day before the 2024 marathon, and typically remains open for around a week.

2. When Are the London Marathon Ballot Results Announced?

For those who applied to the 2025 London Marathon ballot, the big question is: When do you find out about the London Marathon ballot results?

• Results Announcement: The results for the London Marathon ballot 2025 will be announced in June 2024. Successful applicants will be notified via email, and if you don’t receive an email, you can check the London Marathon ballot results on the official website.

• What Time Do the Results Come Out?: Historically, the ballot results are usually sent out in the morning. However, there’s no exact time, so keep an eye on your inbox throughout the day!

3. Participation Statistics: What Are Your Chances?

The London Marathon ballot 2025 is highly competitive. In 2025, a record-breaking 840,318 people applied for a place, surpassing the previous record of 578,374 applications for the 2024 event.

• Ballot Places: Approximately 17,000 places are allocated through the ballot each year, resulting in a success rate of around 2%. This makes the London Marathon ballot one of the most competitive marathon entry systems in the world.

4. Alternative Entry Methods for the London Marathon 2025

If you’re unsuccessful in the London Marathon ballot results 2025, don’t worry—there are other ways to participate:

Charity Places

Many runners secure a spot in the marathon through charity entries. By committing to raise a certain amount of money (typically around £2,000) for a charity, you can guarantee your place in the marathon. This is a popular route for many who are eager to run but didn’t make it through the ballot.

Championship Places

For faster runners, Championship Places are available based on your qualifying marathon or half marathon times. If you meet the time standards, you can bypass the ballot and secure a guaranteed spot in the race.

5. How to Enter the 2025 London Marathon Ballot

Entering the London Marathon ballot is straightforward:

1. Application: Simply visit the official London Marathon website during the ballot period (which typically opens in April each year) and complete the online entry form. For the 2025 ballot, this opened on April 20, 2024.

2. Confirmation: After submitting your application, you’ll receive a confirmation email. If you are successful, you will be notified when the London Marathon ballot results are announced in June 2024.

3. Entry Fee: If you secure a place through the ballot, you will be required to pay the entry fee of £69.99 (for UK residents) or a higher fee for international entrants.

6. Common Questions About the London Marathon Ballot

When do the ballot results for the London Marathon 2025 come out?

• The 2025 London Marathon ballot results will be announced in June 2024.

How much does it cost to enter the London Marathon?

• Entering the ballot is free, but if successful, participants will need to pay £69.99 for UK residents or a higher fee for international entrants.

How many places are available through the London Marathon ballot?

• Around 17,000 places are allocated through the London Marathon ballot, with a success rate of about 2%.

7. Conclusion: Is the Ballot Your Best Option?

The London Marathon ballot offers an exciting opportunity for runners across the world to gain entry into one of the most famous races on the planet. With its random draw and large applicant pool, securing a spot is challenging, but not impossible. For those who don’t make it through the
ballot, charity entries and other alternative options are available, ensuring that everyone has a chance to participate.

Good luck to all who enter the London Marathon ballot 2025—whether you’re successful or exploring other routes, the experience is sure to be unforgettable!