London Marathon sets new world record for charitable fundraising
The 2026 London Marathon has set a new global record as the largest annual single-day charitable fundraiser, with reports indicating that it has raised £87.5 million for good causes, surpassing the £87.3 million milestone established during the 2025 race, reports BritPanorama.
According to marathon officials, the final fundraising figure will be revealed in September and is expected to exceed £90 million. This achievement caps a remarkable day of record-breaking performances across multiple categories, solidifying the London Marathon’s status as the world’s premier charitable running event.
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, breaking what many considered an insurmountable barrier in distance running. Ethiopian star Tigst Assefa also made headlines by bettering 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 set a new Guinness World Record for marathon participation, with 59,830 runners completing the 26.2-mile course. Hugh Brasher, chief executive of London Marathon Events, remarked on the extraordinary nature of the day, citing the exceptional performances, high participation numbers, and significant fundraising success.
Brasher expressed gratitude to all who raised money and contributed through their efforts, noting 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, aiming to make it the most inclusive marathon yet.
The charity plans to launch its “It’s Time To Show Up” campaign, which encourages participation in a nationwide movement supporting autistic individuals and demonstrates how minor adjustments can yield significant impact. Those wishing to secure a place in next year’s event have until 4pm on Friday to enter the ballot.
As the dust settles on a day filled with unprecedented achievements, it becomes clear that the London Marathon continues to blend athletic prowess with a deep commitment to charitable causes, showcasing that even amidst fierce competition, the spirit of community and giving remains paramount.
