The energy in London is rising for the 2026 London Marathon on Sunday 26 April. If you’ve ever watched from the sidelines and thought “that's not for me”, think again. The London Marathon is now one of the most accessible races in the world. Whether you use a wheelchair, have a visual impairment, or live with a hidden disability, the path to the finish line is open to you.

Inclusivity in action

The race is more diverse than ever. In 2025, a record 1,500 disabled participants signed up. The event is also leading the way in fairness: wheelchair winners now receive the exact same prize money as elite runners. There’s also been a 105% surge in interest from disabled people in their twenties, proving that the next generation of athletes is ready to lead.

Don’t train alone 

You don’t have to do this by yourself. There are amazing groups ready to help you get moving:

• Achilles International (London): Pairs runners who are visually impaired, deaf, or have other disabilities with volunteer guides. They meet weekly at Paddington Recreation Ground Track, Stratford Olympic Park, The Green Park or the Emirates Stadium.
• Whizz-Kidz: Supports young wheelchair users with specialised training plans and equipment advice.
• British Blind Sport and England Athletics: offer the Find a Guide service. It connects blind and partially sighted runners with trained guide runners, who are DBS checked and experienced.
• Every Body Moves: is a UK-wide initiative helping disabled people find inclusive sports and activities close to home.

How to join the 2027 race

You can plan for the 2027 race right now:

1. Disability ballot: A dedicated entry pool for disabled people. It usually opens the day before the current year's race finishes

2. Charity places: Groups like Mencap or Activity Alliance offer guaranteed spots if you raise money for their cause

3. Support runners: If you need a guide, the marathon provides a free second place for them once your spot is confirmed

4. Assisted wheelchairs: If you cannot self-propel for 26.2 miles, you can even apply for an assisted wheelchair place where a team helps push you to the finish

The London Marathon proves what is possible when barriers are removed. If you’ve ever wanted to do a marathon you don’t have to just watch, let it be the spark that gets you to the 2027 start line.

Read all about how David, Sandra and Aaron Kerr ran the London Marathon and campaigned for the race to allow assisted runners to take part in our Why we love…running article.

Photo: TCS London Marathon