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.

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.

• 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.

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.