Met Police Issue Stern Warning Ahead of London Marathon 2026
The Metropolitan Police has warned that troublemakers at this weekend's London Marathon will be 'arrested, investigated and prosecuted'. The stern message follows the Crown Prosecution Service's decision to bring charges against two individuals who 'threw red powder paint' at elite runners during the 2025 event.
Cristy North, 38, and Ivan Holland, 19, are accused of jumping over the course barriers on Tower Bridge and throwing the chalky material as the male frontrunners passed by. A group called Youth Demand previously claimed that two of its supporters were responsible. They were wearing T-shirts that read 'Youth Demand: Stop Arming Israel'. A member of London Marathon staff intervened to remove the protesters from the route, allowing the race to continue moments later.
The charges are the result of an investigation by the Met's Public Order Crime Team. Police bosses will implement a number of measures on Sunday, April 26, to help the 50,000 competing runners cross the finish line without incident.
Commander Nick John: Safety is Top Priority
Commander Nick John, who is leading the policing operation, said: 'Planning for this year’s event began almost as soon as last year’s finished. We’ve been working closely with the organisers and our partners to make sure the thousands of runners who have put so much into their training and preparation can have a day to remember for the right reasons.'
'The safety and security of not just participants but also spectators is our top priority. Measures are in place to identify and intervene against anyone trying to get onto the course to cause disruption. Anyone who does so can expect to be arrested, investigated and prosecuted.'
North, of Castle Marina Road, Nottingham, and Holland, of Ashley Park, Bristol, are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on May 15.
London Marathon 2026: Key Details
The London Marathon 2026 is taking place from 8.30am this Sunday (April 26). The elite runners and wheelchair racers begin at staggered intervals, with the mass participation event starting from 9.30am. The official cut-off is eight hours after the last runner starts at 11.30am, and The Mall is set to close at 7.30pm. After that, the finish line moves to St James's Park until midnight.
2027 Ballot Opens Soon
London Marathon organisers have announced that the 2027 ballot will launch at 9am on Friday, April 24, giving potential participants their first chance to take part. The randomised draw remains open until 4pm on May 1, with place confirmations sent out via email by early July.
Organisers continue to explore the possibility of a two-day event, which could see around 100,000 people cross the finish line next year. If approved, the new format could split the men's and women's elite races over the weekend.
The standard application fee is £79.99. However, anyone who chooses to 'double your chances' and secures a place through the second round of the ballot draw will pay a reduced fee of £49.99. International runners will need to pay a £225 international entry, which includes a carbon offset fee for international travel.
Racers, both professional and recreational, will automatically be entered into Saturday and Sunday if expansion permission is granted, significantly increasing people's chances. Those who are unsuccessful will receive a free hydration vest worth over £100, and the donation fee will go to the London Marathon Foundation.
