The TCS London Marathon 2026 is underway with a record-breaking 59,000 participants. Among the many highlights, Sebastian Sawe set a new world record, finishing in under two hours with a time of 1:59:30. Yomif Kejelcha also finished sub-2 at 01:59:41. In the women's race, Tigst Assefa won for the second consecutive year with a time of 02:15:41.
While professional athletes continue to break records, the regular runners provide plenty of entertainment with their creative costumes. From Joe Wicks running alongside Daddy Pig to a man carrying an entire fridge on his back, the marathon is full of memorable sights.
Notable Costumes and Participants
One runner dressed as a bunch of grapes appeared at the start line. The Invictus Games Foundation's 'Veterans' Corner' was also present. Thomas the Tank Engine took part, and a man dressed as a shoe ran alongside his wife.
Jordan Adams ran the 26.2 miles with a fridge tied to his back as part of 32 marathons in 32 days with his brother Cian, raising awareness for frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Batwoman was among many runners in fancy dress. 'Sir James' ran for Great Ormond Street Hospital. Joe Wicks accompanied Daddy Pig throughout the marathon.
BBC commentators debated whether one runner was strapped to a bear or a dog. Another runner wore an inflatable flamingo. A DIY Volkswagen costume had the bib pinned to the 'windscreen'. One runner dressed as a telephone.
The marathon continues to inspire creativity and raise awareness for various causes.
