Championship Entry
You must achieve the relevant qualifying time during the qualifying period.
The qualifying period is 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2025.
You must have achieved a qualifying performance on a course certified by UKA, the Association for International Marathons and Distance Races, or a national governing body for distance running for the country in which the race is held.
You must also be registered with your national governing body (England Athletics, Scotland Athletics, Welsh Athletics or Athletics Northern Ireland), otherwise we will not be able to accept your application.
The proof you'll need to provide is listed in the FAQs at the bottom of the page. Meeting the qualifying time will not guarantee a place but simply the opportunity to submit an application.
| Distance | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Marathon | sub 2:38:00 | sub 3:10:00 |
| Half marathon | sub 1:11:30 | sub 1:26:00 |
The 2026 Championship places are capped at 1,000 (500 men and 500 women).
If there are more than 1,000 applicants, these will be allocated on a ‘fastest first’ basis and the slower runners under the qualification time will be moved to the Good For Age start.
FAQs
If I meet the Championship qualifying criteria, am I guaranteed a place?
Yes – providing you can confirm the information required, meeting the qualification time will guarantee you entry into the TCS London Marathon. You will need to ensure you have paid and secured your entry within the designated time frame after your application has been accepted.
Do I need to enter the ballot if I have a Championship qualification time?
No – so long as you meet the qualifying criteria and have proof of a UKA membership, there is no need to enter the ballot.
Which marathons are eligible for qualification?
Qualifying times must have been run at an event with a course certified by the Association for International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS).
Can I enter if I don’t live in the UK?
Yes – providing you are a member of a UKA membership body, you can apply for a Championship place if you don’t live in the UK.
What do I need to provide as proof?
You will need to provide the following:
• Proof of performance – this will be a link to the results webpage or a file (jpg, PDF) which clearly displays the name, date and qualifying time of the event.
• Proof of UKA membership – this will be your UKA membership number which will be verified on the membership portal.