2026 Sydney Marathon Ballot Now Open

Fancy ticking another World Marathon Major off the list? The 2026 TCS Sydney Marathon ballot is officially open, giving runners a crack at a start line that’s already become one of the sport’s biggest stages.

Sydney only joined the six-strong club of World Marathon Majors this year, standing alongside the heavy hitters of Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York. In its first outing as a Major, more than 33,000 runners streamed across the Harbour Bridge and finished by the Opera House. The race has already proven it belongs with the autumn big guns.

Key dates and times

The ballot opened a few days ago at 10:00 a.m. Sydney time on Wednesday September 24th, that’s 1:00 a.m. Irish time the same day  and will close at 11:59 p.m. Sydney time on Friday Octobeer 17th (2:59 p.m. Irish time, October 17th). The draw will take place Tuesday the 29th of October.

If your name comes out, be sure there’s enough in the bank: the entry fee will be charged to your card the moment you’re successful.

Why Sydney?

• Iconic course starting at North Sydney and finishing at the Opera House.
• Mild spring temperatures and stunning harbour views.
• A chance to grab a World Marathon Majors star in just the second year of Sydney’s membership.

Flights and accommodation won’t be cheap, but with eleven months to plan, there’s time to save a few euro and pencil in a long-haul autumn adventure.

Enter the ballot

Your next shot at lining up with the world’s best is only a click away. Apply here: Ballot Link

If you’ve got the funds and the itch for a once-in a lifetime run, now’s the moment. Sydney next September could be the marathon story you tell for years.