The Tokyo Marathon have increased their field to 40,000 making their 20th anniversary race next year the biggest in their history.
The increased field size is one of a number of new initiatives being introduced by the Tokyo Foundation, which organises the marathon.
The prize money for the winner of the elite men’s and women’s races has been increased to $170,000 making it the most lucrative of any Abbott World Marathon Major.
New steps have been introduced for disabled competitors as the race becomes more accessible.
A new elite para-athlete has been created and there will be more disability categories for the mass field.
Duo teams, which were trialled in 2025, will also become an official division.
Other news
TCS London Marathon will expand into a two-day event in 2027
TCS London Marathon 2027 to cover two days
Sanlam Cape Town Marathon becomes a Major
Cape Town will not only become the eighth member of the series but also Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major.
Episode 91: Catching The Cheats - Marathon Talk meets Brett Clothier of the Athletics Integrity Unit
Deena and Martin talk with Brett Clothier, Head of the Athletics Integrity Unit, on the work his organisation does to keep the sport of marathon running clean.
