On Sunday, April 26, 2026, tens of thousands of runners ran in the London Marathon. It is one of the biggest road races in the world. The race is 42.195 kilometers long. Runners came from many countries. The London Marathon is one of six World Marathon Majors. The others are in Boston, Berlin, Chicago, New York, and Tokyo.
The race started in Greenwich and finished on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace. Runners passed many famous places in London. First, they ran past the Cutty Sark, an old ship in Greenwich. Then they crossed Tower Bridge, which is a very popular part of the route. After that, they ran through Canary Wharf and along the River Thames.
There were different race categories. These included elite men, elite women, wheelchair races, and thousands of regular runners. Some runners were very experienced. Others ran a marathon for the first time. Many people trained for months to get ready for the race.
Charity fundraising is a big part of the London Marathon. Runners raised money for hundreds of different causes. Some ran in memory of a family member. Others supported charities that were important to them. The London Marathon is one of the biggest charity events in the world each year.
Wheelchair athletes also raced the full 42.195-kilometer course. Their races showed the marathon's support for all types of athletes. Large crowds cheered for every runner along the route.
The London Marathon first took place in 1981. It happens every April. It is very hard to get a place in the race. Many people try for several years before they can finally run.