Ballot FAQs

• How is the ballot drawn?
  It is a totally random ballot with no weighting – just like the draw for the National Lottery.
• When do I pay my entry fee?
  All applicants who have been successful in the ballot and offered a provisional place in the 2021 Virgin Money London Marathon will be sent a link to pay the entry fee within the timescales advised when the ballot results are announced during the week commencing Monday 8 February. Applicants who chose to bequeath their entry fee and are then successful do not need to make any further payment.
• What are my other options for gaining entry in 2021?
  There are a number of ways to enter the Virgin Money London Marathon.
  
  Every year a small number of places are offered through competitions on our social media channels and those of some sponsors and partners, so make sure you follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook to be in with a chance to win.
  
  You could also try to secure a charity place, or enter the virtual Virgin Money London Marathon and run 26.2 miles in 24 hours, wherever you are.
• Why don’t you still operate the five-year scheme?
  Put simply, the numbers were so big it became mathematically impossible. The scheme ended in 2010 as it was becoming impossible to offer a guaranteed entry to everyone who had applied unsuccessfully in the ballot for five successive years. This was a scheme offered by us, the organisers, and not by a sponsor.
• How old must I be on Marathon Day?
  You must be 18 years old or over.
• My friend/family member is now unable to run; can I use their entry?
  Places in the Virgin Money London Marathon are not transferable under any circumstances.
  
  Anyone attempting to run using another person’s entry will be disqualified and banned for life from the London Marathon and all other events organised by London Marathon Events Ltd.